Defence
Dortmund have not always been the most defensively sound team in the world, but they managed to get it right last season. After conceding 34 goals the entire season, an average of 1 goal per game, Tuchel seems to have settled on a back 4.
With the departure of star centre-half Mats Hummels to Bayern though, Tuchel has had to turn to the transfer window for answers to his defensive problems.
Left Back- Raphael Guerreiro
Along with Bartra, BVB have also obtained the services of UEFA Euro 2016 winning left back Raphael Guerreiro. The Portuguese will provide pace and dynamism to the squad, something Marcel Schmelzer was unable to do. The 22-year-old is also something of a set-piece expert. An extremely attacking left back, Raphael scored 7 goals and provided 5 assists in the 14/15 season. Along with Marco Reus on the left, the duo are expected to terrorise defences all acorss the league.
Centre-Back- Marc Bartra
Marc Bartra arrived from Barcelona for €8m and is expected to slot into the centre-back role replacing Hummels. Bartra had a reasonably successful time at the Catalan giants, making 25 appearances in all competitions last season.
Bartra, similar to Hummels has great passing and on-the-ball skills and brings with him a wealth of experience for someone so young. He has also played for Spain internationally and being from Barcelona, has several trophies to his name.
Center-Back- Sokratis
Sokratis will partner Bartra at centre-half. After a successful partnership with Hummels, Sokratis will look to build a similar relationship with the Spaniard. One of the better defenders in the Dortmund lineup, Sokratis will have to take on the role of defensive leader.
The Greek international made 35 appearances for Dortmund last season and was instrumental in their second-placed finish. With Bartra’s ease of playing the ball out of defence coupled with Sokratis’ no-nonsense approach to defending, the duo are set to complement each other well.
Right Back- Lukasz Piszczek
Piszczek will maintain his spot at right back. The Pole has been a key aspect of Dortmund’s rise in the last few seasons and is renowned for his bombing runs down the right-hand side. Aged 31, Piszczek still has a few good years ahead of him and his presence should provide the necessary experience for a young and youthful Borussia Dortmund side.
