Four reasons why Bayer Leverkusen star Kai Havertz should join Borussia Dortmund
By Adam Bakr
How Dortmund could line up
Havertz is not the same style player as Sancho, but he can still fit into the front three of Borussia Dortmund’s current 3-4-3 formation. He would be less of a true right winger, and play off of Erling Haaland in a way similar to Marco Reus. Having another player who can link up around the field and also find themselves in dangerous positions in the box would be a welcome asset to the lineup.
Havertz has proven deadly in this role, as shown when he was the Bundesliga’s highest scoring attacking midfielder last season playing off of Kevin Volland and Lucas Alario. Havertz would also have a familiar midfielder behind him with Julian Brandt in the line up.
This would rely on the right-wing-back to maintain the team’s width in attack, and if Achraf Hakimi is to go back to Madrid this summer, it’s a role Thorgan Hazard can fill. While he has solely played as a winger for Dortmund, Hazard is predominantly a wing-back for Belgium. It would not be putting a forward in an unfamiliar place, and his presence will give Havertz more chances to play with a free role.
Hazard has been more efficient as a provider than a scorer this season, so in a deeper role he continue to create opportunities without the expectation to find the back of the net as well. And his defensive discipline will ensure that the team isn’t open at the back.
The style of play would change, and Sancho could ultimately be irreplaceable, but the team can still benefit heavily from pursuing a known talent instead of gambling on a lesser known winger to adopt the same role Sancho has starred in.
As for Havertz himself, the move can be great for his young career.