Sat Feb 22 16:30:00 UTC 2025: ## Last-Minute Blow for Dortmund: Brandt Out Against Union Berlin
**Dortmund, Germany** – Borussia Dortmund will be without midfielder Julian Brandt for their crucial Bundesliga clash against Union Berlin on Saturday evening. The club announced Brandt’s absence just an hour before kickoff, citing a muscle strain that developed unexpectedly. The news came as a surprise, as no prior injury was reported.
Brandt’s absence leaves a hole in Dortmund’s midfield, particularly after his candid admission earlier this week about the team’s struggles weighing heavily on him personally. Dortmund drew 0-0 against Sporting Lisbon midweek in the Champions League.
Giovanni Reyna will replace Brandt in the starting XI. Dortmund, currently languishing in 11th place in the Bundesliga, desperately needs a win against Union Berlin to keep their hopes of a top-four finish alive. New coach Niko Kovac is still searching for his first win with the club.
First Piper 