Dortmund’s Defensive Struggles Highlighted by Captain Emre Can

Borussia Dortmund relinquished a 2-0 advantage against VfB Stuttgart, only to regain the lead before conceding a last-minute equalizer at the 90+1 mark. This result signifies a setback in their pursuit of Bundesliga leaders Bayern Munich.

Ahead of Dortmund’s UEFA Champions League match against Villarreal, Emre Can, the team captain, was asked about the squad’s defensive performance.

“We need to maintain our focus in the final minutes of matches,” Can stated. “While we might be fatigued, it is essential for everyone to exert additional effort, even when it is challenging. It is not merely a matter of desire; I hope we will improve in the future.”

Despite receiving praise for their defensive play this season, Dortmund’s late concessions against VfB have raised questions regarding their mental resilience. In the current Champions League phase, only Union Saint-Gilloise, Copenhagen, and Ajax have conceded more goals than Dortmund.

Can has recently returned to active play, participating in consecutive matches for the first time this season after recovering from an adductor injury. Regarding his physical condition, the 31-year-old remarked, “I am not yet at 100 percent. Recovering from a prolonged injury typically takes several weeks to regain full fitness.”

Expected to start alongside Waldemar Anton and Nico Schlotterbeck, Can expressed his versatility: “I truly enjoy playing defensively. I appreciate the position as it allows me to view the entire field. I feel very comfortable in this role at the moment, but if the coach places me in a more advanced position, I will give my utmost there as well.”

— GGFN | Daniel Pinder