“Top marks today”: Kovac suddenly full of praise for BVB star | OneFootball

Borussia Dortmund is delighted with a brilliantly performing Yan Couto, who stood out in the victory against Hoffenheim. However, coach Niko Kovac also had some clear words for a BVB talent.

During the 2-0 win by Borussia Dortmund against TSG Hoffenheim, one player moved particularly into the spotlight: Yan Couto. The Brazilian, who in recent weeks often lost out in the competition with Julian Ryerson, made impressive use of his opportunity—and received an exceptional amount of praise from coach Niko Kovac.

Previously, Couto had last been in the starting eleven in the Bundesliga on matchday 9. In the meantime, he did make an appearance in the Champions League against Villarreal, but otherwise was rarely considered. Against Hoffenheim, he was given a new chance—and he impressed across the board.

Kovac especially highlighted the 23-year-old’s defensive work: “Defending Toure on that side is not easy, especially since he is really fast and has great technique.” But Couto didn’t just shine at the back. For Julian Brandt’s 1-0, he set up the goal with an energetic run to the byline, and he was directly involved in the second goal as well. Later, he even served Serhou Guirassy a “magic pass” into the depths, but the finish hit the crossbar.

Kovac raves about BVB star Couto

The Dortmund coach’s verdict was clear: “That was a straight A today.” Particularly noteworthy, since the full-back was not always a regular under Kovac and Ryerson usually gets the nod in top matches. The coach welcomes the increased competition: “Competition is important, it fuels energy and that’s what every coach wants.”

Kovac was less complimentary about youngster Julien Duranville, who was once again not in the squad. At the press conference, the BVB coach made it clear: “We are at BVB, and at BVB there are really good players. He is too, but the others are better.” For the 19-year-old, who recently played for the U23s, a change could already be on the horizon this winter.

Couto, on the other hand, has impressively brought his name back into the conversation after this evening—and visibly impressed his coach.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇩🇪 here.