Borussia Dortmund squad depth analysis: Midfielders

Sleepers and Potential Big Performers

Aside from the most obvious choice in Jude Bellingham, I am going in a little bit of a different direction with the midfield in terms of big performers.  Until the fateful and terrible day that Borussia Dortmund sells Bellingham, he will forever and always be a crucial player for the team.  Mahmoud Dahoud was also a candidate for this selection. I have personally been a big fan of Dahoud’s since his renaissance under Edin Terzic in 2021.

But the choice for potential big performer in midfield goes to Salih Özcan. Maybe this is not necessarily a surprise to most, as the general reception amongst fans and onlookers has been that Özcan fits a glaring team need for a defensive-minded midfielder.

Özcan is entering into the prime years of his career. Borussia Dortmund were absolutely abysmal last season in defense, and I would argue that a lot of their struggles had more to do with not having a true number six midfielder than anything else. Özcan brings a level of intensity and defensive acumen to the team that will see a dramatic shift from last season’s defensive woes.

For the midfield group’s sleeper player, I’m going to go with Gio Reyna. For many, Reyna is probably not much of a sleeper candidate, as he’s pretty well-liked within the BVB fanbase.  But I’m choosing Reyna because of just how much I think his abilities and presence in the squad will have a positive effect on the entire team, which I think will greatly surprise fans.

When Reyna is on the pitch and healthy, he’s one of the most creative players we’ve got in the squad. BVB really missed his presence last season as he dealt with recurring injuries. But now that he’s regaining his fitness and is in a position where he’s not being rushed back onto the pitch, this should turn out to be his best season so far for the Black and Yellows. Not only does he provide some much needed depth in every position in attack, his skillset will help tie the squad together and will really elevate the team’s goal-scoring threat to elite levels.

What are your thoughts on this years group of Borussia Dortmund’s midfielders? Are there any that you think will end up outperforming their potential or projections? Or how about any players that you think have flown under the radar and will end up playing a big part in the team’s success?  Leave a comment below with your take.