Champions League Final 2013: Mario Gotze Ruled Out for Borussia Dortmund in Wembley Final Against Bayern Munich

May 22, 2013 11:13 PM EDT
Borussia Dortmund Mario Gotze Robert Lewandowski
Borussia Dortmund forward Mario Gotze (R) celebrates with teammate Robert Lewandowski after scoring against Shakhtar Donetsk in their Champions League game, March 5"

 

The most interesting subplot of the Champions League final was Mario Gotze turning up for Borussia Dortmund in his last game for the club against the team he will join in the summer - Bayern Munich.

However, the fans will not be able to witness the unique occurrence with Gotze ruled out of the showpiece final at Wembley due to a hamstring injury suffered in the second leg semifinal game against Real Madrid.

Gotze trained Tuesday with Dortmund, but pulled out of the session prematurely after feeling something in his hamstring.

Dortmund then announced the player would not be available against Bayern Munich in the Champions League final.

"Borussia Dortmund midfielder Mario Gotze has been ruled out of the UEFA Champions League final against FC Bayern Munich at London´s Wembley stadium on Saturday due to injury," the club said in a statement.

"The Germany international returned to training for BVB on Tuesday after picking up a muscle injury in the semifinal second leg at Real Madrid but complained of pain afterwards."

Gotze admitted of his disappointment at not being able to take part in the Champions League final.

"It was my great goal to play in the final, and I fought hard for it in the last couple of weeks," he said. "I´m very sorry that I won´t be able to help the team in this crucial match.

"I have full confidence in our team and will of course make the trip to London to support the lads as best I can."

Bayern Munich agreed to trigger the reported €37 million (£31.5 million, $47 million) release clause, after incoming manager Pep Guardiola specifically asked for the player, leaving Dortmund with no choice but to watch one of their best youngsters leave in the summer to one of their title rivals.

That has caused a lot of friction between the clubs, and some of it is sure to spill over onto the pitch in what promises to be a thrilling Champions League final.

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