It has undoubtedly been a whirlwind few seasons for Borussia Dortmund. From missing out on the Bundesliga title on the final day to reaching the Champions League final against all odds, there has rarely been a dull day at the Westfalenstadion over the past couple of years.
However, with Edin Terzić having been replaced by Nuri Şahin, as well as a couple of new additions coming through the doors in recent weeks, it almost feels like a new era has begun in Dortmund.
With pre-season preparations well and truly underway, Dortmund will look to start their Bundesliga campaign on the front foot. However, what is the atmosphere like within the Dortmund camp?
Speaking to kicker, Nico Schlotterbeck commented on the first few days of training with the squad back together: “We have already worked very well, for a long time and with great effort, for two training sessions. I think the team is in good shape; it brings a good atmosphere to the pitch, and we are happy that everyone is back.”
As well as this, the German international spoke about how Şahin has imposed himself at the club since becoming the new head coach: “He places a lot of emphasis on intensive play, with and without the ball. On Friday morning, we practiced the build-up with the goalkeeper and how we come out from the back. We also had a lot of shots and a lot of possession games. That’s what we want, and what is the most fun in training.”
Under Terzić, dominating the opponent and playing progressive football was very rarely on display. This would, therefore, see Dortmund approach this upcoming campaign in a more exciting manner.
However, the effectiveness of this new approach will be dependent on how well their new signings adapt to life at the Westfalenstadion. Schlotterbeck, though, was full of praise for Dortmund’s new recruits:
“I’ve known Pascal Groß for a while; we’ve played together a few times in the national team. He’s an outstanding footballer and a top person, so I’m looking forward to him. I think he can give our game something that we perhaps didn’t have before.”
“I only met Waldi Anton at the last DFB training course. He’s a player with a strong mentality, had a super season with VfB, and is extremely quality. That’s why we’re happy to have both of them here. Unfortunately, I haven’t seen Serhou Guirassy on the training ground here yet and have only played against him so far. He had an outstanding goal rate last year, and I hope he can carry that over.”
With BvB’s Bundesliga campaign set to start in just over three weeks against Eintracht Frankfurt, there will be expectation on Şahin’s side to impress. Nonetheless, Schlotterbeck is clearly confident and excited for the Black and Yellows to prove their worth this season.
GGFN | Will Shopland
