Ridle Baku can concentrate fully on VfL Wolfsburg again for the time being. The 23-year-old is missing from the DFB line-up for the upcoming international matches. Hansi Flick informed the player in advance of his decision.
It had already become apparent during the last international break. In the World Cup qualifier against Liechtenstein (2:0), Ridle Baku was still in the German starting eleven (as a right-back, kicker grade 5), then only sat on the bench against Armenia (6:0) and was dropped from the line-up before the Iceland game (4:0) and sent home early as a surplus player. Now national coach Hansi Flick has dispensed with the Wolfsburg player completely – and informed him of this decision in advance.
“Hansi Flick called me and Ridle,” reveals VfL coach Mark van Bommel, “he explained it.” The Dutchman does not want to divulge any details of the conversation. One thing is clear: for now, Baku’s only option is to join VfL and offer himself for the national team. “He’s doing well, that’s all he can do,” stresses van Bommel, who feels for his player. “It’s a pity for Ridle, everyone wants to play for their country.”
One of Baku’s problems: as an extremely flexible player, he is currently mainly deployed in the attacking wing positions in Wolfsburg, but at right back, where he would most likely have a perspective in the DFB squad, he gets less play. At VfL, however, he continues to be one of the key players, and last matchday he scored his second goal of the season as a left-sided attacker with a fine flick against Hoffenheim (1:3).
Baku is also likely to be part of Wolfsburg’s starting eleven on Saturday (15.30, LIVE! on kicker) against Borussia Mönchengladbach, despite probable rotation. The only question with Baku is usually: In which role will he be used? Hansi Flick is also likely to continue to keep a close eye on him.