Nuri Sahin backing Julien Duranville to make first-team impact at Borussia Dortmund this season

Nuri Sahin is a big fan of Julien Duranville, and is confident that the talented Belgian winger can make his breakthrough at Borussia Dortmund this season.

Regarded as one of the most exciting young wingers in world football, Julien Duranville joined Borussia Dortmund from Anderlecht in January 2023 for a fee close to ten million euros. Several big clubs were interested in signing Duranville, but the Black and Yellows won the race for his signature.

Since his move to Germany, the 18 year old has been forced to deal with a number of injury setbacks. Duranville has been limited to just three competitive first-team appearances so far at Borussia Dortmund, with frequent injuries slowing his progress and development.

Nuri Sahin believes that Duranville is progressing well, but also knows that they must manage him carefully to avoid further injuries. "Duranville is special. Every time he trains, he surprises us. He's a young player in the middle of his development, he's become more robust over the summer. We have to take small steps with him and continue to build him up without wrapping him in cotton wool. We need him for the whole season. I like having him on the pitch," Sahin said (via Ruhr Nachrichten).

Julien Duranville certainly has the potential to develop into one of the best wingers in the world, and he was even touted as a future Ballon d'Or candidate by newly appointed Bayern Munich head coach Vincent Kompany. But for now, his aim will be to steer clear of injuries and get as much playing time as he can at Borussia Dortmund.