Defensive Duo Back for the Bundesliga Match Against Paderborn

Nico Schlotterbeck and Ramy Bensebaini have returned to team training following their injuries and are available for the Paderborn match. "They're fit, healthy, and ready to play this weekend. I can count on both of them," said Kovac.

Konstantinos Karetsas will not be available; he had to be substituted during the match against Villarreal due to circulatory issues. Sporting Director Ole Book said of him: "He's doing well under the circumstances. Further tests are underway; we want to get to the bottom of this."

Also out are Emre Can (torn ACL), Filippo Mane (muscle injury), Giannis Konstantelias (torn ACL), and Samuele Inacio (red card suspension).

Kovac had words of praise for new signing Ethan Nwaneri , who came off the bench last weekend against Hoffenheim and on Tuesday against Villarreal. "He's integrated really well. He's a great guy—very calm, down-to-earth, friendly, helpful, and a very good soccer player," said Kovac. "In his two brief appearances, he's shown that he can help us out. I'm very happy with him." (cr)