Borussia Dortmund 6-1 FC Köln: Key Takeaways
Raphaël Guerreiro continues to reinvent himself in Borussia Dortmund’s midfield
Among the many revelations Borussia Dortmund have seen since going on this unbeaten run in the Bundesliga, Raphaël Guerreiro’s switch to midfield has to be one of the most exciting. A player many expected to be completely out the door come summer due to the impending signing of Ramy Bensebaini, Rapha has reinvented himself in the last few games. He has put in stellar displays from the middle of the park that have many, the club included, reconsidering their position about his free agent status come the summer.
When it comes to his performances at left back, its no secret that there were some serious concerns surrounding his defensive contributions. I will be the first admit that I personally believed (and still believe) that new blood is needed in the position that Rapha has filled for most of his BVB career. Whether this player ends up being Ramy Bensebaini still remains to be announced formally, but it’s always been clear that Rapha does have the ability too still play a role for BVB, even if a new left back does join.
This comes down to his versatility. Guerreiro has the skillset to comfortably fill multiple positions in the BVB XI. We know for a fact that he’s able to play out wide on the left, as he’s done that in the past, and now, with 2 goals and 4 assists in the last two games, he’s very much shown that central midfield is a position he can fill exceptionally.
It wasn’t just the goals and assists that have impressed however. The Portuguese international has looked far more composed in the middle of the park. His link up play with his teammates has been astounding, with the player seemingly able to find his teammates with a deft pass no matter where they may be on the pitch.
His technical ability has shone brightly as well. Playing more centrally, he’s been a driving force in terms of playing through tight spaces in order to either put the ball or himself in an advantageous position for his side. Most importantly however, this stint in midfield has brought more genuine joy to his game. He’s looked happier and his body language has been more positive, which are crucial ingredients that allow a player to flourish while on the pitch.
While many had previously suggested that Guerreiro would make a solid addition to Borussia Dortmund’s midfield, credit is due to Edin Terzić and his coaching staff for making the switch and leaving the option open for further appearances there.
These appearances have reignited Rapha’s form and allowed him to show the club that he can still bring value to this Dortmund side, a fact that has been emphasized by their renewed interest in holding contract talks with the player.
The plan is seemingly to offer the player a two year contract, which, if his form continues in this trajectory, would be immense for the club. One can only hope that Rapha himself sees a possible future in midfield, considering he plays at left back for the Portuguese national team. His performances leave no doubt in my mind that if he made the switch permanent, his career, and Dortmund’s midfield, would continue to prosper.