Defensive jewel Filippo Mane simply cannot find his rhythm permanently at Borussia Dortmund. Once again, an injury has halted the 21-year-old Italian. BVB manager Niko Kovac is also in the dark regarding Mane's susceptibility to injuries.

The 54-year-old predicted another lengthy absence ahead of the Champions League opener against Villarreal on Tuesday at 9:00 PM CET, stating that they expect nothing to happen until the international break.

Mane suffered another muscle injury during Borussia Dortmund's Bundesliga match at Hoffenheim (3:2) on Saturday—far from his first in recent months and years.

Kovac acknowledged Mane's extensive injury record, noting that while they have done many things right, injuries happen when you're working hard, and unfortunately that is currently the case with Mane.

Borussia Dortmund is already investigating the causes behind his almost eerie injury streak. Kovac explained that they want to examine many areas to see if they have overlooked something, noting that Mane has good endurance and strength values and is top-tier in those areas.

The manager emphasized that this latest setback would make Mane stronger.

BVB: Only nine appearances for model professional Mane

Immediately after the match against Hoffenheim, Kovac had described Mane as a model professional, but noted that his body keeps acting up.

Mane transferred to Borussia Dortmund from Sampdoria's youth academy in 2022, later progressing to the professional ranks. However, the two-time Italian international has made only nine appearances due to his fragile physical condition.

In Borussia Dortmund's defensive midfield, the personnel situation becomes increasingly thin with Mane's latest absence. Nico Schlotterbeck and Emre Can will be sidelined for longer, and Ramy Bensebaini is also currently struggling with injury.

Additional alternatives for Kovac are the regular full-backs Julian Ryerson and Daniel Svensson.