Overview
- The captain has not returned to full team training or played this season following an adductor injury sustained late last term.
- A report of pubic-bone inflammation from Bild has been rejected by both Can and the club.
- Club bosses have adopted a "who wants to stay must deliver" approach as the 31-year-old enters his final contract year.
- Competition for minutes is robust in midfield and defense, with options including Felix Nmecha, Marcel Sabitzer, Pascal Groß, Jobe Bellingham, Carney Chukwuemeka, Waldemar Anton, Nico Schlotterbeck and Aaron Anselmino.
- Speaking to WAZ, Schlotterbeck said becoming captain would be an honor but emphasized Can’s stature and made clear he is not pursuing the armband.