Predicted Borussia Dortmund lineup vs FC Köln
By Brook Genene
Defenders: Julian Ryerson, Niklas Süle, Mats Hummels, Ramy Bensebaini
New signing Ramy Bensebaini is expected to start at left-back, having already shown that he has the attributes to be a shrewd signing for Borussia Dortmund.
Niklas Süle and Nico Schlotterbeck will likely be the most used centre-back pairing throughout this season. Although Mats Hummels was used heavily in pre-season, and could be in the starting XI on Saturday with both Süle and Schlotterbeck still finding their way towards 100% fitness.
Hummels is still a solid defender, but is nearing the end of his career and his lack of pace has the potential to hurt the team on the counter-attack. So he is not expected to be a regular starter this season.
Julian Reyerson seems to have the right-back spot nailed on at the moment. The Norwegian international has been a very impressive addition to the squad since joining from Union Berlin in January.