How the Mats Hummels transfer could affect the other Borussia Dortmund centre-backs
By Tushar Bahl
Abdou Diallo
After arriving on a big money transfer from Mainz last summer, Abdou Diallo enjoyed an encouraging start to life at the Westfalenstadion, before injuries to other players prompted Lucien Favre to shift him to left back.
His shortcomings were clearly visible in his new role, as Diallo struggled to make much of an impact going forward. Schulz’ arrival should mean that Diallo will not have to play at left back as much next season. But the transfer of Hummels will probably push him out of the starting lineup at least at the start of the season.
Of course, Akanji and Hummels are both prone to injuries and rotation is very important, so Diallo will get plenty of chances next season. And if he can take his chances, he might be able to push one of Hummels or Akanji out of the first choice line up. A back three of Akanji, Hummels and Diallo could also be an interesting idea if Favre decides to go that way.
But his future could be thrown into doubt if Borussia Dortmund decide to sell two defenders this summer. Zagadou is rated very highly and Balerdi hasn’t been given a chance yet, so Diallo could be the one to be sacrificed in case the BVB bosses decide that they need to raise some money.