Unfamiliar role: Beier must deliver for BVB | OneFootball

BVB is rebuilding its attack around young talents – but it lacks a leading figure. Of all people, Maximilian Beier is supposed to fill that gap, even though the 23-year-old is still developing himself.

The debate was sparked by sporting director Lars Ricken. As Sport BILD reports, he called in the dressing room for the experienced players to take the lead in helping integrate the young professionals. That spine exists in defense and midfield – but in attack, there is a clear gap.

Gregor Kobel in goal, Nico Schlotterbeck in defense, and Felix Nmecha in midfield are seen as vocal leaders who also take responsibility off the pitch. Up front, such a figure is missing. Serhou Guirassy may provide the goals through the middle, but he has not exactly emerged as a role model. And he could leave the club.

Why the role is falling to Beier of all people

A look at the squad makes the problem obvious: Justin Lerma (19), Mathis Albert (17), Samuele Inacio (18), and possibly soon Konstantinos Karetsas (18) are expected to shape the future of the black-and-yellow attack – all of them very young, some only just arriving in Dortmund. An experienced player who could guide these talents is hard to find. That is why attention turns to Beier.

Photo: IMAGO

The forward himself has only been playing at Strobelallee for two years and is still in the middle of his own development into a fully polished professional. He has not previously been seen as a classic leader – and that is not meant as criticism. But he may now have to skip that step out of necessity, because the attack offers hardly any other options.

From a sporting perspective, Beier has built a strong case. Last season, he contributed 20 goal involvements and was rewarded with a World Cup appearance, where he continued to mature despite the early exit. He is also versatile: he can play as a center forward, second striker, and on the wings. That range helps, because he understands what qualities are needed in each position.

A double task for Beier

For Niko Kovač and his staff, it will be crucial to create the right environment for the young players to develop. In doing so, the coach depends on experienced professionals – and Beier has the qualities needed to take responsibility up front.

What is also clear, however, is that this step is coming earlier than planned for his own career. First, Beier has to establish himself in the starting lineup and prove his consistency, while at the same time taking on more responsibility. If he manages both, it would be a major step forward – for himself and for BVB’s attack.

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