Borussia Dortmund are revisiting the scene of their heartbreaking 2013 Champions League final defeat, eleven years on. Legendary manager Jürgen Klopp led his team to Wembley for an all-German clash with Bayern Munich, following a memorable semi-final victory over Real Madrid. Despite surrendering the Bundesliga title to Bayern, who were chasing a treble under Jupp Heynckes, Dortmund fielded an iconic XI, now steeped in nostalgia.
A goalless first half gave way to a dramatic second, with Mario Mandzukic putting Bayern ahead, only for Ilkay Gundogan to equalize from the penalty spot. However, Arjen Robben’s 89th-minute winner dashed Dortmund’s hopes. With the club now back in the Champions League final, only two players from that fateful night remain.
Here’s where Dortmund’s 2013 starting XI are today:
Roman Weidenfeller
The steadfast goalkeeper, who played a crucial role in Dortmund’s run, retired in 2018 after 16 years at the club, amassing 453 appearances and two Bundesliga titles. He also won a World Cup medal with Germany in 2014.
Lukasz Piszczek
Still active, the 39-year-old serves as player-manager for Polish third-tier side LKS Goczalkowice-Zdroj. His 11-year tenure at Dortmund, marked by his resilience against Franck Ribéry at Wembley, included two Bundesliga titles and three DFB-Pokal wins.
Neven Subotic
Famed for his goal-saving tackle against Robben, Subotic left Dortmund in 2018 for Saint-Etienne. Subsequently, after stints in Germany, Turkey, and Austria, he eventually retired in 2022.
Mats Hummels
One of the two remaining players, Hummels returned to Dortmund in 2019 after a spell at Bayern. Known for his defensive prowess, the 35-year-old continues to impress, recently showcasing his skills against PSG.
Marcel Schmelzer
A one-club man, Schmelzer now works as a coach in Dortmund’s academy. Unfortunately, injuries plagued his final seasons, ultimately leading to his retirement. Despite these setbacks, he remains a dedicated figure within the club.
Sven Bender
Battling injuries throughout his career, Bender still played a key role in Dortmund’s Champions League campaign. Subsequently, he joined his brother at Bayer Leverkusen in 2017. Now, he serves as part of Dortmund’s coaching staff, continuing to contribute to the club’s success.
Ilkay Gundogan
Gundogan moved to Manchester City in 2016, swiftly becoming a crucial player for Pep Guardiola. Following his impactful tenure and multiple titles with City, including captaining the team to a treble, he transitioned to Barcelona. Since then, he has continued to shine brightly for his new club.
Jakub Blaszczykowski
Despite facing significant injury challenges, Blaszczykowski, a fan favorite known for his speed and work rate, retired after a stint with Wisla Krakow. Poland gave him a special send-off as he concluded his career.
Marco Reus
Set to leave Dortmund after this season, Reus, plagued by injuries, has been a key player since rejoining the club in 2012. His penalty win against Bayern remains a highlight.
Kevin Grosskreutz
The versatile Grosskreutz, who played multiple positions, left Dortmund in 2016. Now playing for amateur side Wacker Obercastrop, he remains a beloved figure in Dortmund.
Robert Lewandowski
Lewandowski, now at Barcelona, became a legend at Bayern Munich after leaving Dortmund in 2014. Known for his incredible goal-scoring record, he continues to dominate in La Liga.
This season, Dortmund hopes to finally capture the Champions League title that eluded them in 2013, with Hummels and Reus leading the charge.
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