Mats Hummels's retirement could be delayed a little longer. © ANSA / TELENEWS

Hummels excited about possible BVB return

According to “Bild”, the thoughts about a possible short comeback of Mats Hummels at Borussia Dortmund are also said to be of great interest to the former football world champion.

12 April 2025

From: dpa

The 36-year-old is "absolutely thrilled" by the BVB executives' alleged plans to sign him as a standby player for this summer's Club World Cup, the report states. The defender's continued strong ties to his former employer are cited as the background. Hummels played for the club from 2008 to 2016 and from 2019 to 2024.

Given their personnel woes following the long-term absence of Nico Schlotterbeck, Dortmund are reportedly considering a short-term signing of Hummels. The central defender recently announced that he would end his career at AS Roma after this season.

Kovac: Hummels has huge importance for BVB

A return to BVB for Hummels as early as June would be possible, as there is an additional transfer window for Club World Cup participants. From June 1 to 10, Borussia could pre-register new signings to have them available for the tournament. The Club World Cup, featuring 32 clubs, will take place in the USA from June 14 to July 13.

Hummels is an icon in Dortmund. © ANSA / CHRISTOPHER NEUNDORF

BVB coach Niko Kovac, who previously worked with Hummels at Bayern Munich, responded to the speculation before the Bundesliga away game in Munich: "Mats is certainly an exceptionally good footballer who has achieved a lot in his life. He also has a huge importance for BVB. I personally hear about that, too."