As Borussia Dortmund prepares to face Celtic in the Champions League this week, head coach Nuri Sahin has singled out Kyogo Furuhashi as a player to watch. Despite Furuhashi’s smaller stature, Sahin acknowledges his significant impact on the pitch.
Sahin, who has returned to Dortmund as head coach, is set to lead the team in his first home Champions League match against the Scottish champions. He emphasized the importance of respecting Celtic and their tactical capabilities, particularly with Furuhashi leading the line.
“Every team has its strengths and weaknesses, and key players, so it would be very easy to name some,” Sahin remarked. “But if you really want a name, I am a big fan of Kyogo. He is not a typical striker; he is very smart, and I really like the way he moves off the ball and the timing of his runs. He is a very talented player.”
Sahin is preparing his team by analyzing their opponents thoroughly. He mentioned the importance of meetings and training sessions in readying the squad for the challenges posed by Celtic. The coach is not just focusing on Furuhashi; he recognizes that Celtic possesses a well-rounded group capable of executing their game plan effectively.
Additionally, Sahin expressed an awareness of Celtic’s recent recruit, Arne Engels, noting that while he didn’t know much about the player from his time in Germany, he has since gained respect for the young midfielder.
As the teams gear up for the match, both sides are dealing with injury concerns. Celtic’s defender Cameron Carter-Vickers is a major doubt for the clash, and the team is working diligently to prepare without him if necessary.
In contrast, Dortmund has been facing internal challenges, with reports suggesting tensions between players. Sahin addressed the need for unity as they head into this critical fixture, emphasizing that every player must contribute positively to overcome the distractions.
The upcoming match is significant for both clubs, with Dortmund aiming to assert their dominance at home and Celtic seeking to break a 14-game winless streak against German teams in the Champions League. Celtic’s players, including Liam Scales, have shared their determination, with Scales revealing a focused pre-match routine as they aim to perform at their best.
With both teams under pressure, this match promises to be an exciting encounter, showcasing the tactical prowess of both managers and the individual talents of players like Furuhashi. As Sahin prepares his side, he is aware that underestimating any player, especially someone as crafty as Furuhashi, could be a costly mistake.
This Champions League clash not only carries implications for team standings but also resonates with the fans, who expect a thrilling display of football. As the teams finalize their preparations, all eyes will be on the pitch when the whistle blows.