Nico Schulz, former Borussia Dortmund player, has found a new club one year after his contract was terminated in Dortmund. The 31-year-old former German international has signed with the Turkish second division team MKE Ankaragücü. Schulz, a left-back, has inked a deal with the Süper Lig relegated team until June 30, 2026.
Schulz, who was valued at 600,000 euros and was among the most valuable German players without a club, left BVB last summer, four years after his 25.5 million euro transfer from TSG Hoffenheim. He had spent a season without any competitive appearances after being sidelined by then-coach Edin Terzic.
During that time, Schulz was also absent from team training for an extended period following allegations of domestic violence made by his former partner. The case of grievous bodily harm was dismissed last February due to lack of evidence, with Schulz being required to donate 150,000 euros to charity organizations. Prior to the legal proceedings, he had also paid undisclosed compensation to his ex-partner.
Unable to secure a club in Germany, Schulz faced backlash from supporters after training with regional league side SV Babelsberg 03. His move to Ankaragücü marks his first venture abroad. In his time at BVB, Schulz made 61 appearances and scored one goal, with his last game on May 7, 2022.
Schulz’s Career Trajectory
Nico Schulz began his professional career at Hertha BSC, where he rose through the ranks of the youth system before making his senior debut in 2011. After a successful loan spell at Fortuna Düsseldorf, Schulz secured a move to Borussia Mönchengladbach in 2015. His performances caught the eye of TSG Hoffenheim, who signed him in 2017.
It was at Hoffenheim where Schulz truly emerged as one of the top left-backs in the Bundesliga, earning him a move to Borussia Dortmund in 2019. Despite initial promise, he struggled to establish himself as a regular starter at BVB, leading to his departure in 2021.
The move to MKE Ankaragücü represents a fresh start for Schulz, who will be looking to reignite his career and showcase his abilities in a new environment. The Turkish second division offers him a platform to play regular football and potentially attract interest from clubs across Europe.
Challenges and Controversies
Schulz’s time at Borussia Dortmund was marred by off-field issues, including the aforementioned legal case and his subsequent expulsion from the team by Edin Terzic. The allegations of domestic violence tarnished his reputation and raised questions about his character.
While the legal proceedings have been resolved, Schulz will need to demonstrate maturity and professionalism at his new club to put the past behind him. MKE Ankaragücü will be expecting him to focus on his football and contribute positively both on and off the pitch.
The backlash from fans at SV Babelsberg 03 highlighted the importance of maintaining a good public image as a professional athlete. Schulz’s actions and behavior will be under scrutiny at his new club, and he will need to show a commitment to redemption and personal growth.
Future Prospects and Goals
For Nico Schulz, joining MKE Ankaragücü offers a chance to rebuild his career and prove his worth as a top-level player. The Turkish second division may not be as high-profile as the Bundesliga, but it presents a valuable opportunity for him to showcase his skills and attract interest from clubs in higher leagues.
Schulz will need to adapt to a new style of play and a different footballing culture in Turkey, which could provide him with valuable experience and broaden his skill set. Playing regularly and performing well for Ankaragücü will be crucial for him to secure a future move to a higher division or even a return to a top European league.
Overall, Nico Schulz’s move to MKE Ankaragücü marks the beginning of a new chapter in his career. With determination, hard work, and a positive attitude, he has the potential to revive his career and achieve success in the Turkish second division and beyond.
