BVB worries grow: is it Reggiani’s time to shine? | OneFootball

Before the Bundesliga clash with Mainz 05, Borussia Dortmund is plagued by massive defensive worries. As a result, young talent Luca Reggiani could surprisingly move into the starting lineup.

At Borussia Dortmund, the pressure in defense is mounting ahead of the Bundesliga home game against 1. FSV Mainz 05 (Friday, 8:30 p.m.)—and an 18-year-old could unexpectedly step into the spotlight. According to TV broadcaster Sky, Luca Reggiani repeatedly featured in the first team during Thursday’s final training session. A starting debut for the central defender now seems quite possible.

The personnel situation at BVB is tense. Emre Can (adductor problems) and Filippo Mane (thigh injury) remain sidelined, and Nico Schlotterbeck is suspended after receiving his fifth yellow card. This means not only is the defensive leader missing, but also the most important playmaker from the back line—a central factor in coach Niko Kovac’s system.

Improvisation was already necessary in the away game at VfL Wolfsburg (2:1). There, Reggiani made his Bundesliga debut, and now the next step could follow. The reason for his prominent role in training is said to be minor issues for Ramy Bensebaini, who could only participate in a limited capacity. While his appearance against Mainz is not considered fundamentally at risk, a residual risk remains.

BVB Coach Kovac Praises Reggiani

Kovac had already hinted after Reggiani’s brief appearance that the youngster is a real option: “Luca is a young, talented lad who was lucky enough to collect his first minutes. He’s doing really well in training.” He added: “If it becomes necessary in the game, we wouldn’t hesitate to use him.”

If Bensebaini is indeed unable to start, Reggiani could form a back three with Waldemar Anton and Niklas Süle—they would currently be the only regular central defenders in the squad. Despite the precarious situation, Kovac is demonstrating composure. When asked about the personnel worries, he said: “I have no headaches about it. On the contrary: I’m convinced we have enough quality to win this game.”

Whether this quality will be represented in the starting lineup by an 18-year-old on Friday will likely be decided at short notice. One thing is clear: Dortmund’s defensive worries are growing—and the possible surprise involving Luca Reggiani is taking concrete shape.

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