Borussia Dortmund midfielder Mathis Albert has spoken of his ambition to become a star at the club, someone who fans look forward to watching inside the stadium on matchdays.
The 17-year-old, who broke into the BVB first team last season, has been a part of Niko Kovac's preseason squad whilst also scoring against Fortuna Dusseldorf a few weeks ago.
However, Albert isn't content yet. The South Carolina-born teenager wants to develop into a player of massive stature at the club in five years time.
German news outlet Sports Bild quoted him saying (via BVB Newsblog on X)
""In five years’ time, I want to be a really big player for my team – one that every opponent has to watch out for. I want to help my club perform at the very top and be a player who’s a joy to watch – someone people buy a ticket to see and come to the stadium for.""
The ambitions sits really well with a club that's aiming to get back to the pinnacle of German football as Albert is the kind of young gun that head coach Niko Kovac needs to build his squad around.
On far too many occasions last season, the BVB appeared devoid of any hunger - not for the lack of trying, but for simply the dearth of motivation in the players; the squad as a whole.
For a team that wants to compete on multiple fronts and win trophies, there has to be urgency. Every game must be approached like it's their last.
Sadly, Dortmund didn't seem like that side in 2025-26 season once again despite a relatively better run in the top-flight than in recent times.
Albert further added that he wouldn't let his extraordinary goals prevent him from enjoying their games as the American feels passionate about playing football.
""At the same time, I want to keep enjoying the game. That’s the most important thing for me: I play because I enjoy it – not because it’s a job that earns me money. I know that’s a big goal. But I believe I’m good enough, and I’m confident I’ll get there one day.""
Joining from LA Galaxy in 2024, Albert set the record for Bundesliga's youngest ever player at 16 years 27 days in April after coming off the bench in their 4-0 win over Freiburg, his maiden senior appearance for Borussia Dortmund.
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