Sebastian Kehl praises Alexander Isak’s development ahead of Borussia Dortmund reunion

Sebastian Kehl has hailed Alexander Isak for the development he has undergone since leaving Borussia Dortmund in 2019.

Alexander Isak joined Borussia Dortmund as a 17 year old in 2017 but wasn’t able to establish himself as a first-team player in Germany. The striker made 13 appearances for the Black and Yellows before joining Real Sociedad on a permanent transfer in 2019.

Isak enjoyed an impressive resurgence in Spain, which prompted Newcastle United to spend 70 million euros on his signature last year. The 24 year old has scored 17 goals for the English Premier League side, including seven in just 11 appearances this season.

Sebastian Kehl believes that the timing did not work out for Isak to make his mark at Borussia Dortmund. But the BVB sporting director is pleased with the development he has enjoyed in recent years.

"“Alex has always had huge potential, you could see that when he was with us,” Kehl said (via Ruhr Nachrichten). “But it was perhaps not the right moment in terms of timing to be able to give him sufficient playing practice and develop him further.”“Alex took a small step back and then a huge step forward. He’s developed really well and is a good guy with a lot of quality. He’s in great form and will be looking forward to the reunion. Of course, we hope he doesn’t score against us.”"

Alexander Isak will go up against his former team for the first time on Wednesday when Newcastle United take on Borussia Dortmund. The 24 year old will certainly be eager to make his mark against Edin Terzic’s side and also score his first ever goal in the UEFA Champions League.