How can Borussia Dortmund compensate for the injuries to Julien Duranville and Karim Adeyemi?

Option 3: Dortmund tap into their youth team for reinforcements

So far, the options we've discussed regarding what Dortmund can do to deal with these injuries to Adeyemi and Duranville have not been mutually exclusive, and in fact, are all resources and systems that Şahin can look to in this situation best ride out this new wave of injuries. Looking to the youth academy is no different, and luckily for Dortmund they do have players that come to mind who can help relieve some of the issues created by said injuries.

Cole Campbell is the most prominent of these that comes to mind. In a situation where a young, talented player like Duranville is for example not available, it only makes sense to integrate another academy star, especially if one like Campbell is available. Campbell has received internal as well external praise, with Schalke under-19 head coach Norbert Elgert stating that the player is ready to start in the Bundesliga.

While clearly not a direct replacement for either Adeyemi or Duranville, Campbell could offer depth in the wide positions until both are back from injury. It would likely also be a good experience for Campbell himself, who is indeed in Dortmund's long-term plans, having recently signed a contract until 2028 with the club.

Final thoughts

As we can see, Dortmund head coach Nuri Şahin has ample options to compensate for the injuries to Karim Adeyemi and Julien Duranville. The success rate of these options will come down to his player's ability to step up and adapt to potential shifts in system, as well as Sahin's ability to coordinate any potential shifts in a way that works to his player's strengths.

The biggest factor will be how well players like Beier and Malen perform now that they will likely be called upon to field more minutes on the pitch. It will take a concerted effort to make up for the loss of Adeyemi in particular, who was starting to hit new heights in his own development. If the senior players are able to play to their ability, Dortmund should be able to weather the next month of the season comfortably.