Marcel Schmelzer has featured in Der Klassiker on several occasions. He has played for Borussia Dortmund in 14 seasons of Bundesliga, after all.

Dortmund’s clash on Saturday with Bayern Munich would be a new experience for him. He would be watching the match along with Dortmund’s fans in Kochi, at Padma Theatre here.

Schmelzer, who is in the city for the Bundesliga ‘Z’ Football Week, is looking forward to the game. After ending his career as a defender at Dortmund in 2022, he has taken up a coaching job at the club.

The former captain has fond memories of Der Klassiker. “My most cherished memory is our 5-2 win in the Cup final in 2012,” he said. “It was an amazing game and an amazing season. I am hoping that we will get three points against Bayern on Saturday, too.”

Schmelzer, who played 16 games for Germany, is part of the Dortmund coaching staff that will conduct a clinic for local players and conduct workshops for trainers.

This is a joint venture by Zee Entertainment and Bundesliga Eagles FC as the local partner.

Eagle FC’s chairman Shaffi Mather said the response from young players and coaches was excellent. “We are glad that we could bring the Dortmund’s coaches to Kochi,” he said. “And Dortmund has a strong following here. There is a registered fans association for the club here.”

Suresh Letchmanan, Managing Director, Asia-Pacific, Borussia Dortmund, said developing young talent was an important part of the club’s philosophy. “We are delighted to bring our coaching expertise to Kerala, a region with a strong passion for football,” he added.

Former Dortmund and Australia midfielder Mustafa Amini is also part of the Dortmund delegation.