Dortmund’s Defensive Struggles and Emre Can’s Perspective Ahead of Champions League Clash

omidbasir- Borussia Dortmund faced a challenging match against VfB Stuttgart, where they initially secured a 2-0 lead but ultimately allowed a last-minute equalizer, resulting in a setback in their pursuit of Bundesliga leaders Bayern Munich.

Ahead of Dortmund’s UEFA Champions League showdown with Villarreal, captain Emre Can addressed concerns regarding the team’s defensive performance.

“We must maintain our focus in the final moments of the game,” Can stated. “While fatigue is a factor, each player must summon the additional effort required, even when it feels challenging.

“This is not merely a matter of desire. I hope we can improve in future matches.”

Although Dortmund has received praise for their defensive displays this season, their tendency to concede late goals has raised questions about their mentality. In the current Champions League phase, only Union Saint-Gilloise, Copenhagen, and Ajax have allowed more goals than BVB.

Can, who recently returned from an adductor injury, participated in consecutive matches for the first time this season. Reflecting on his fitness, the 31-year-old remarked, “I am not yet at 100 percent. After being sidelined for a lengthy period, it takes time to regain full fitness.”

As Dortmund prepares for the upcoming match, Can is likely to partner with Waldemar Anton and Nico Schlotterbeck in defense. He expressed his enthusiasm for playing in this role, stating, “I truly enjoy defensive play. It allows me to see the entire field ahead of me, and I feel quite at ease in this position. However, should the coach assign me to the number six position, I will give my best effort there as well.”