Mats Hummels relaxed about his future as he sets his sights on fighting for the Bundesliga title

Mats Hummels is staying relaxed about his long-term future, but wants to play an important role in Borussia Dortmund’s bid to win the Bundesliga title this season.

A crucial season awaits Mats Hummels as he heads into the final year of his Borussia Dortmund contract. Talks regarding a new contract are not expected to take place any time soon, but the BVB vice-captain is fairly relaxed about his future at the moment. Instead, he is determined to help the Black and Yellows compete for the Bundesliga title.

In an interview with Ruhr Nachrichten, Hummels said:

"“I recently said to Sebastian Kehl that if I were at BVB, I wouldn’t extend my contract right now either (laughs). I think the relaxed attitude that both sides are displaying is exactly the right thing to do. I want to have the feeling that I can still help and that I’m not just a burden.”"

Borussia Dortmund have bolstered their defence this summer with the signings of Nico Schlotterbeck and Niklas Süle. Following their arrivals, many have written off Mats Hummels’ chances of being a regular starter this season. But the veteran centre-back is relishing the competition for places in defence.

"“I don’t see it as a negative in the slightest. The battle for places is definitely bigger for me than it has been for a very long time – as it was in my early days with the national team. But that is definitely a good thing and not something that makes me frown. But rather something that brings a smile to my lips.”"

Hummels struggled with fitness issues for the majority of last season, and that also affected his form. But he is determined to make more of an impact in the upcoming campaign after getting an extended summer break to prepare for the new season.

Borussia Dortmund’s spending spree this summer has shown that they are ready to take the fight to Bayern Munich this season. And Hummels is keen to make sure that Edin Terzic’s side give their rivals a real challenge for the Bundesliga title this season.

"“We have to challenge for the Bundesliga title. But if you take a blatant example, Liverpool once failed to become champions with 97 points. And I wouldn’t blame them too much for that. We have to give everything we’ve got, and then we can’t blame ourselves if that’s not enough.”"

Borussia Dortmund will begin their Bundesliga campaign in two weeks’ time as they go up against Bayer Leverkusen at the Signal Iduna Park.