Emre Can commands Borussia Dortmund's focus amid contract countdown

With just one year remaining on his deal at the Westfalenstadion, the 31-year-old midfielder insisted his sights are locked on the battles ahead, not the negotiating table.

The Yellow and Black face a blockbuster Champions League quarter-final clash with Barcelona over two legs, while also pushing to secure a European spot in the Bundesliga.

For Can, those challenges outweigh any personal concerns. "Of course everyone thinks about what might happen in the future, but it's not a pressing topic for me right now," he told Sky Germany. "We have extremely important weeks ahead of us."

A Dortmund stalwart since joining from Juventus in 2020, Can has worn the captain's armband since 2023. His bond with the club remains strong, particularly with sporting director Sebastian Kehl.

"I've been at BVB for a long time and have always had a good relationship with Seb, for example," he said. "The time will come when we sit down together and talk openly about the way forward. I'm very relaxed about it."

The former Liverpool man's leadership will be vital as Dortmund aim to upset Barcelona and climb the Bundesliga table.

A recent X update from the club's official account hailed Can's influence, stating: "Emre's experience is key for us in big moments, he's ready to lead."

Head coach Niko Kovac echoed that sentiment in a press conference, saying, "Emre's focus is exactly where it needs to be, on the pitch, with the team."

For now, Can's contract clock is ticking, but the midfield general has made it clear: Dortmund's fight comes first.

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