Fábio Silva is unhappy once again — this time not at Wolverhampton Wanderers, but at Borussia Dortmund, where frustration has returned just months after finally escaping Molineux. According to SportBILD, the Portuguese striker is growing irritated with his minutes under Niko Kovač and is already exploring an exit in January, even though Dortmund have made their stance unmistakably clear.
Silva left Wolves in the summer to restart his career in Germany, believing consistent game time in a top European league would strengthen his chances of making Portugal’s squad for the 2026 World Cup. Instead, he is experiencing déjà vu: a lack of minutes, growing impatience and an urge to move again.
Silva Wanted Playing Time — Now He Wants More
The 22-year-old’s situation is described as “a certain dissatisfaction” by SportBILD. His ambition to play at the World Cup next summer is no secret, and Portugal manager Roberto Martínez has already warned him that regular football is essential.
While Silva’s appearances at Dortmund have increased in recent weeks — and his form has improved — his role remains that of a rotational forward. For a player desperate to become a national-team regular, rotation isn’t enough.
This, his camp believes, justifies exploring the January market. But Dortmund have already responded decisively.
Dortmund to Silva: No January Exit — “Fight for Your Place”
Unlike his time at Wolves, where repeated loan spells became routine, Silva will not be allowed to walk away from Dortmund mid-season.
SportBILD reveal that Dortmund’s hierarchy have delivered “a clear message” to the forward and his representatives: There will be no departure. No loan. No negotiations.
They expect him to fight, compete and earn his starting spot. Any attempt to force a move, the club insists, would be “a wasted effort.”
The stance marks a sharp contrast to Wolves, who repeatedly offloaded the striker on loan to Anderlecht, PSV and Rangers. Dortmund want him to stay, develop and contribute — which means facing competition rather than escaping it.
Game Time vs Development
Kovač has used Silva predominantly from the bench, but the striker has made an impact in limited minutes, showing energy, improved movement and link-up play. The club believe he is trending in the right direction — but not yet ready for a guaranteed starting role.
That's why Dortmund are insisting he remain part of the project.
With long-term options such as Malen, Brunner and the rising academy forwards, Dortmund value Silva more as a growing asset than a finished article.
If Silva accepts that reality, this could be the environment he needs. If not, the cycle risks repeating.
Fábio Silva’s Season at Dortmund So Far
| Category | Stat (2025/26) |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 12 |
| Goals | 1 |
| Assists | 2 |
| Minutes Played | 224 |
| Role | Rotational/Impact Substitute |
source: Bundesliga match data – 3 December 2025
Silva’s goal contribution every 75 minutes is actually strong — but the lack of sustained starts continues to drive his frustration.
The Next Months Will Define His Career Trajectory
Silva’s desire to play at the World Cup is admirable, but abrupt mid-season moves rarely benefit developing forwards. Dortmund’s refusal to entertain a January exit may be the best thing for him.
Although some may argue it limits his options, it is worth remembering that consistent development requires stability. For the first time in years, Silva is at a club that values him — but expects maturity and competitiveness in return.
If he channels his frustration into performance rather than movement, Silva can finally break the cycle.
Key Insights
- Silva is frustrated with playing time at Dortmund, similar to his Wolves situation.
- Portugal manager Roberto Martínez has urged him to play regularly for World Cup hopes.
- Dortmund have made it clear: no January loan, no exit, no negotiation.
- His camp is already exploring loan options, but Dortmund will block any attempts.
- Silva has produced 1 goal and 2 assists in just 224 minutes.
What’s Next?
Silva will need to accept Dortmund’s stance and compete for his place. The next two months — and his reaction to adversity — will determine whether he becomes a long-term Bundesliga contributor or continues to drift through clubs searching for guarantees.
👉 Is Dortmund right to block Fábio Silva’s exit — or should they let him leave to save his World Cup hopes?
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