Borussia Dortmund's Edin Terzic clarifies Jadon Sancho and Ian Maatsen fitness levels
- Rob Fleming
- 13 January 2024
Borussia Dortmund head coach Edin Terzic, has shed light on the integration plans for the newly-acquired Premier League stars, Jadon Sancho and Ian Maatsen.
As anticipation reaches a fever pitch, Terzic reveals the careful balance he aims to strike between unleashing their potential and safeguarding against unnecessary risks.
Terzic, speaking on the much-anticipated Bundesliga clash against SV Darmstadt 98 today, dismissed speculations swirling in the German tabloid Sport BILD regarding Sancho's immediate inclusion, emphasizing a cautious approach. "We brought in both players so that they could play," Terzic stated. "We want to integrate both of them as quickly as possible so that they get a lot of minutes with us."
Regarding Sancho's readiness, Terzic acknowledged the player's impressive natural fitness but underscored the need for a measured strategy due to his prolonged absence from competitive play. "We wish to ride his euphoria, but do so carefully. We can't afford to rush him through too quickly and then lose him to a stupid injury," Terzic cautioned.
The scenario differs for Maatsen, with Terzic hinting at a potential starting role, especially in the absence of left-back Ramy Bensebaini. "Maatsen's a bit more advanced than Jadon because he was still playing for Chelsea recently," Terzic noted. "We hope that he'll be able to fit in with the group immediately and will be able to liven up the attack on the wings."
Amidst the speculation surrounding the new arrivals, Terzic also addressed the situation of American attacker Giovanni Reyna, who has been on the fringes this season due to injury and transfer rumours. Contrary to the murmurs, Terzic assured that the once heralded phenom is fully fit and showcased his best fitness metrics during the January training camp.
"His fitness levels have improved significantly, and his abilities are well known," Terzic emphasized, shedding light on Reyna's versatility. "Of course, we'd like to play him on the wings more often, but his clear strengths lie in the ten or eight slot. Even there, however, competition is fierce."
As Dortmund's dynamic duo and their American counterpart add layers to Terzic's tactical palette, the football world awaits the unfolding strategy that may define Borussia Dortmund's Bundesliga campaign.
