Borussia Dortmund's restructuring: The winners and losers of Edin Terzic's departure

Loser: Emre Can

Last summer Emre Can was saved at the last minute by Edin Terzic and instead managed to get himself a new contract following the deal for his replacement collapsing. Can was then made captain in spite of his aggressive history in matches and training. Terzic has been a massive supporter of Can and has gotten Can to play the best football of his career recently. That said, Can has had numerous blunders passing out from the back and forced multiple yellow cards out of his teammates in the group stage against AC Milan as he missed multiple challenges.

With his biggest defender gone, Can will see his status in the squad questioned. While his captaincy has given him an important status following the departures of Hummels and Reus; Can has gone from a lock starter to a likely candidate to be upgraded upon. Emre Can is able to fill in at many positions making him a useful squad player coupled with his leadership. However, if Sahin wants to play a possession game or expects a progressive defensive midfielder Can is likely to be hurt.

Whether or not Terzic stayed, Can’s status in the first eleven was likely under question between his performances and Ozcan’s likely move away as the only midfielder not to have a new contract from last summer. This makes his exit more likely, and his replacement would be expected to at the least push Can. Regardless Can will no longer have his defender in the boardroom and if his struggles continue he will not be long for the club. Maybe Sahin can improve Can beyond the level he has shown in Dortmund.

Final thoughts:

While summer transfers could effect players in addition to the coaching change, Nuri Sahin's desire for attacking football will effect every player. As Dortmund look to assert themselves in games, attackers will be expected to increase there goal and assist output while midfielders will need to be more intelligent about when to press or drop off.

With another 5th place finish unacceptable and BVB cash rich from a UCL final run more depth will be added this summer and if the players cannot prove that Terzic was at fault for the inconsistencies this past campaign, they will soon join him exiting the club or see fewer and fewer minutes as the season goes on.