SC Freiburg‘s starting goalkeeper, Noah Atubolu, has suffered a shoulder capsule injury that will keep him sidelined for at least the next league fixture against Borussia Dortmund. The 22-year-old German keeper was forced to leave the pitch in the 58th minute of Sunday’s loss to FC Union Berlin after colliding with teammate Philipp Lienhart while attempting to defend a cross.
Though Atubolu was able to play on for a while, he ultimately had to be substituted, with veteran German keeper Florian Müller playing the final half-hour plus. The injury is a significant blow to Freiburg, who had been on a seven-match unbeaten streak in the Bundesliga before Sunday’s loss.
Atubolu has been in impressive form this season, conceding only 33 league goals and keeping 10 clean sheets. His performances have also sparked interest in his international future, with the keeper eligible to represent both Germany and Nigeria. However, Atubolu has made it clear that he intends to play for Germany, despite being overlooked by coach Julian Nagelsmann for the national team.
It remains to be seen whether Atubolu will reconsider his international options if he continues to be overlooked by Germany. For now, his focus will be on recovering from his injury and returning to the pitch for Freiburg. The club will be hoping that his absence is not too prolonged, as they look to get their Bundesliga campaign back on track.
The injury to Atubolu is a significant setback for Freiburg, but the club will be hoping that Müller can fill the void in his absence. With a crucial match against Borussia Dortmund looming, Freiburg will need all their players to be at their best if they are to get a positive result.
The absence of Atubolu will be deeply felt by Freiburg, as he has been a key player in their success this season. His injury will require careful management to ensure that he makes a full recovery and can return to the pitch as soon as possible.
Freiburg’s coach will be working closely with the team’s medical staff to ensure that Atubolu receives the best possible care and treatment. The club’s fans will be eagerly awaiting his return, as they look to get their Bundesliga campaign back on track.