Aaron Anselmino, a promising defender signed on loan by Borussia Dortmund from Chelsea, made an impressive debut but has since been sidelined due to multiple injuries, raising concerns about his future and the club's defensive options.

Anselmino suffered several muscular injuries shortly after joining Dortmund, with at least three setbacks that have kept him out of key matches, including upcoming Champions League and Bundesliga fixtures.

His repeated injuries have cast doubt on a potential permanent transfer, especially since his loan deal does not include a purchase option, complicating Dortmund's long-term planning.

Dortmund's coach Niko Kovac confirmed that Anselmino remains unavailable and is still in the process of integrating back into training, indicating a lengthy recovery period.

Anselmino's latest muscular injury has prevented him from participating in important matches against Athletic Club in the Champions League and RB Leipzig in the Bundesliga, and he is expected to be sidelined for the foreseeable future.

This injury setback occurred during recovery training, further delaying his return and raising concerns about his ability to contribute this season.

The fact that Anselmino is loaned without a purchase option highlights the risks involved in loaning young, injury-prone players, which could impact Dortmund's and Chelsea's future transfer strategies.

His injury history has also made a permanent move less likely, with Dortmund and Chelsea wary of investing long-term in a player who struggles with fitness.

There is speculation that Dortmund might consider keeping Anselmino beyond 2026 despite the lack of a purchase clause, as the club explores options to sign him permanently.

Chelsea’s long-term plan was to develop Anselmino into a first-team player, but ongoing injuries have hindered his progress, and a recall could be possible if he remains unfit.

Dortmund's coach confirmed that Anselmino will not be available for the upcoming match against Athletic Club, emphasizing his continued absence due to injury.

Dortmund's sporting director Sebastian Kehl expressed disappointment over Anselmino's injury setbacks and stressed the importance of his quick return to fitness.