The Borussia Dortmund captaincy question has been resolved: Emre Can will remain the captain of the Black and Yellows. In a change of order, coach Nuri Sahin explained the decision regarding Gregor Kobel’s role.
It was uncertain how the new BVB coach Nuri Sahin would handle the captaincy question. On Tuesday after the 2-2 draw in a friendly against Villarreal, clarity was provided: Emre Can will lead the team in Dortmund, with Julian Brandt as vice-captain and Nico Schlotterbeck as the third captain. Gregor Kobel and Marcel Sabitzer are part of the extended team council.
In the previous season, Kobel and Niklas Süle had assisted captain Can, but that has now changed. Coach Sahin explained his decision, stating, „I have announced the team council and I want to say in front of all of you that my decision with the five guys who are now in the team council and also the captains was not a decision against Greg. So if someone has a guaranteed position, it’s Gregor Kobel,“ Sahin said.
Furthermore, the coach elaborated on why he chose three outfield players as captains and praised his goalkeeper. „I had two very good conversations with him (Kobel) and simply told him that I wanted the connection on the field to be with an outfield player. And Greg took it very professionally and said he is fully on board and supports me completely. We are talking about one of the best goalkeepers in the world. His position with us is highly regarded, it doesn’t get any higher,“ Sahin expressed.
The decision is not related to the new rule that only the captain can speak to the referee. Sahin clarified, „No, that would be just for show. Because if the goalkeeper is the captain under the new rule, then you appoint an outfield player to speak with the referee. That’s not the point. I have a lot of connection internally, and in those brief moments you have in a full stadium, I can’t reach Greg. I want to be able to reach the captain quickly.“
The clarification provided by coach Nuri Sahin sheds light on the captaincy structure at Borussia Dortmund and the reasons behind the choices made. The emphasis on communication and strategic positioning within the team highlights the importance of leadership on and off the field. With Emre Can leading the team and Gregor Kobel’s pivotal role acknowledged, the Black and Yellows are poised for a strong season ahead.