Dortmund face fitness concerns ahead of Barcelona clash

Both teams are vying for vital points in the group stage, with Dortmund determined to impress on home turf.

Dortmund's manager, Nuri Sahin, faces a mixed bag of injury concerns and recoveries.

German forward Karim Adeyemi, 22, who has been sidelined since October with a thigh injury, is reportedly making strong progress and is expected to return just in time for the Barcelona showdown.

Meanwhile, Julian Brandt, who missed the recent 1-1 draw against Bayern Munich, remains a question mark, although some reports suggest he could be back in time, following a muscle injury.

Adding to Dortmund's challenges, Donny Malen and Julian Ryerson missed training this week due to illnesses.

However, team sources are optimistic about their recovery ahead of the match.

Dortmund's last outing against Bayern Munich saw them secure a hard-fought draw, with Sahin praising his team's resilience.

However, facing Barcelona will require not only tactical acumen but also peak fitness from the squad.

Barcelona, in fine form this season, will aim to test Dortmund's defensive resolve.

The Catalan side are expected to bring their trademark attacking flair to Signal Iduna Park, setting the stage for an electrifying encounter.