Waldemar Anton Set to Shine as Dortmund’s Third Captain

New Leadership Role Unfolding

Waldemar Anton is poised to take on a larger leadership role at Borussia Dortmund after two veteran figures departed or were sidelined. The German centre‑back will likely wear the armband from the season’s kickoff as the club’s third captain. His elevation follows Julian Brandt’s free‑transfer departure, leaving a vacancy that Anton is now expected to fill.

Captain Emre Can remains out after a cruciate ligament tear, while vice‑captain Nico Schlotterbeck is nursing a medial ligament issue. With the two senior defenders unavailable, Dortmund officials see Anton as the natural successor to lead the back line. The move signals a shift in responsibility for the 29‑year‑old, who has already proven himself as a key defender for the Black‑Yellow side.

Contract Talks and Future at Westfalenstadion

Multiple German news outlets report that Dortmund is ready to hand Anton a new contract that extends beyond his current deal in 2028, complete with improved terms. The potential extension would likely extinguish recent speculation linking him to Manchester United. Staying in Dortmund appears far more probable now, cementing his status as a long‑term pillar of the defense.

A contract renewal would not only reward Anton’s consistent performances but also provide stability for the squad’s leadership structure. It would also reinforce the club’s strategy of nurturing home‑grown talent and veteran leaders amid a season of transitions. The new agreement would be a clear vote of confidence from the club’s management.

In the broader picture, Anton’s promotion to captaincy reflects Dortmund’s effort to maintain cohesion on and off the pitch. As the team navigates injuries and a reshuffled backline, having a steady figure like Anton at the helm could prove crucial for rallying the squad. The upcoming season will be the true test of whether this leadership shift translates into on‑field success.