Grading Borussia Dortmund's summer signings
Ramy Bensebaini
Ramy Bensebaini came from Borussia Monchengladbach on a free transfer, and from the start it seemed like an astute piece of business from Borussia Dortmund to replace the outgoing Raphael Guerreiro.
Mid-way through the season, it is a fair reflection to say that BVB have still sourly missed what Guerreiro brought from a versatile and offensive point of view, despite Bensebaini adding discipline and stability to the left side. For where the modern game is at, the Algerian is a limited full-back as he has been unable to flourish in crossing or distributing the ball as proficiently as his predecessor.
However, versatility is something that the Algerian defender has brought to Dortmund in an area where it has been much needed. And his ability to play at centre-back could help him earn some minutes on the pitch in the second half of the season.
His influence on the team gradually dwindled as the first half of the season went on, and by the time he was ready to go to AFCON, the bigger worry was about the lack of availability in the position as opposed to the lack of quality. The loan signing of Ian Maatsen has shown what a modern day wing-back should really look like, and Bensebaini has a battle on his hands to continue starting games for Borussia Dortmund upon his return.
Being a free signing means that at worst, he is a good option for depth in multiple defensive roles. That is the sort of role Bensebaini should expect to play for the remainder of the season, with Maatsen already making a big impact.