Emre Can: Borussia Dortmund a great fit for me – and vice versa

Emre Can has revealed his reasons for joining Borussia Dortmund in January, and has heaped praise on teammate Erling Haaland.

Emre Can was one of Borussia Dortmund’s two signings in the January transfer window, joining on an initial loan deal with an option to buy. The German international made an immediate impact, instantly becoming a key player for the Black and Yellows, despite being forced to spend the majority of the first half on the bench for Juventus. And his excellent performances prompted the BVB bosses to make his transfer permanent less than one month after his arrival.

Now the midfielder has revealed what prompted him to join Borussia Dortmund earlier this year. In an interview with the club’s official website, Can said:

"“I’ve always been a real admirer of BVB. I wanted to join a club where I’d have an important role to play, where I’d really be needed. That was the case for me at Dortmund. Borussia are a great fit for me – and vice versa.”"

Can was also asked about fellow January signing Erling Haaland, who has also made a massive impact, scoring 16 goals in just 18 appearances for Borussia Dortmund. And Can believes that the young striker has a great career ahead of him.

"“Every player is special in their own way. Erling has all the qualities of a top striker. He’s unbelievably fast, powerful, strong in the air, a good shooter – plus he always knows where the goal is.”“Not to mention the fact that he’s extremely mature for his age. Erling is very professional in the way he goes about things. If he keeps this up then he has a great career ahead of him.”"

Can also praised the 19 year old’s mentality and determination to ensure the success of the team, and how it’s in line with how he thinks.

"“The two of us talk to each other about how we can improve and how we can best use our strengths to help the team be successful. We think in the same way. We both want success. We drive each other on. Erling has an unbelievable mentality. I really like the way he conducts himself.”"

Despite being only 26, Can has already enjoyed a very illustrious career which has seen him play for a number of big clubs, including Bayern Munich, Bayer Leverkusen, Liverpool, Juventus and now Borussia Dortmund.

"“When I was four or five years old, kicking a ball around the bins outside my home, I dreamt of becoming a footballer. If someone had told me that ten years ago then I would never have believed them. I don’t regret any move I’ve made, as I learnt something new each step along the way. Now I have so much ahead of me at BVB!”"

Can also spoke about Cristiano Ronaldo, who he played with at Juventus, praising his excellent work ethic and attitude.

"“He does what he has to do every day. Always at one hundred percent. He is extremely professional in everything he does. That’s why he’s so successful. There has never been anyone else with the same determination as Ronaldo. That’s what has got him to where he is today. His work ethic made a real impression on me. “"

Can made 15 appearances for Borussia Dortmund in the recently concluded season, scoring two goals and playing a crucial role for the team both in defence and midfield.