Marco Rose heaps praise on “great footballer” Mahmoud Dahoud

Borussia Dortmund head coach Marco Rose has heaped praise on Mahmoud Dahoud, and has backed him to play a leadership role in the team this season. 

Mahmoud Dahoud has enjoyed an incredible 2021 so far. The midfielder began the year as a fringe player for Borussia Dortmund. And it was widely expected that he would be sold before long. But he forced his way into the team in February and established himself as a vital player for the Black and Yellows. His performances in the middle of the park helped BVB win the DFB-Pokal and qualify for the Champions League last season.

He was rewarded for his performances with a new contract that will keep him at Borussia Dortmund at least until the end of the 2022/23 season. Despite interest from other clubs, the 25 year old took a pay cut to extend his contract with BVB.

Borussia Dortmund head coach Marco Rose was asked about Mahmoud Dahoud during his pre-match press conference ahead of Saturday’s DFB-Pokal first round tie against SV Wehen Wiesbaden. And Rose was full of praise of the influential midfielder.

"“He’s a great footballer with high individual quality and the willingness to work for the team and run a lot. Mo is a lot of fun to work with, plus he’s a really good guy.”"

Rose also backed Dahoud to take on more responsibility and become a leader in the Borussia Dortmund team this season.

"“If Mo wants to lead, then he is more than welcome to lead. He has the skills, that’s always the most important thing. If you want to be a leader, you have to play good football and perform well. That’s how you gain authority and trust in the team.”“If you want to be a leader, you have to speak up and take responsibility. If he can do that, he will get full support from all of us.”"

Dahoud delivered some of his best performances in a BVB shirt in the second half of last season. He also showed his quality with some strong displays during pre-season. And now he will want to keep the momentum going and play a key role under Marco Rose in the upcoming campaign.