Arjen Robben set to miss der Klassiker against Borussia Dortmund through injury

Reports from earlier this week suggested that Arjen Robben was questionable for the trip to Borussia Dortmund, but it’s now been confirmed that the Dutch winger did not travel with the rest of the Bayern Munich squad for der Klassiker. The 34-year old is suffering from a knee injury and was unable to participate in the club’s last training session of the week before departing for Dortmund.

Robben had felt something in his knee during Thursday’s training session, but Niko Kovac was quick to suggest that his midfielder was fine when asked about his fitness during the pre-Dortmund press conference. Unfortunately for Kovac and Bayern, he spoke too soon and fitness tests earlier today confirmed that the Dutchman would not be able to part-take in the all important clash in Dortmund.

For Bayern, Robben’s absence could prove to be a massive blow, considering his record against Dortmund, having scored at least once against them in each of his past two seasons. As far as injuries are concerned, too, the knee problem comes at a difficult time for Robben, who’s gotten off to a healthy start this season, scoring 3 goals and providing 2 assists from 13 appearances across all competitions. He’s had his significant injury troubles in the past couple of seasons, but this knee problem is the first real injury concern he’s had this season. Hopefully the injury proves to be nothing too serious and he’s able to return to full training after the international break.

Speedy recovery, Arjen!

Photo credit should read Christof Stache/AFP/Getty Images