In addition to Tom Rothe (17) and Jamie Bynoe-Gittens (17), right-back Lion Semic also made his professional debut for Borussia Dortmund on Saturday. The 18-year-old came on as a substitute in the 88th minute of the 6-1 win over VfL Wolfsburg. His first minutes in the Bundesliga were the reward for his development over the past few months with BVB’s youth team.
“I was sure that all three would do well. I think we’ve prepared them quite well as a club,” said U19 coach Mike Tullberg to the “Ruhr news“. Unlike Rothe and Bynoe-Gittens, who are still tied until 2024 and 2023 respectively, Semic’s contract ends next summer and according to a report in the newspaper, the teenager arouses desires at other clubs. Accordingly, Hamburger SV should show interest in the German youth international along with other clubs.
A decision as to whether Semic will leave the black and yellow or extend it has not yet been made. Talks with the player have been going on for “some time” and BVB is optimistic that the youngster will continue on his way in Dortmund.
Semic switched to BVB’s youth team in 2017 and has since played for the U16s, U17s and since the summer of 2020 for the U19s, for which he has been directly involved in six goals in 19 appearances to date. The fact that he cannot play more games is due to two longer breaks due to injuries, which cost him a lot of time. Therefore, according to Tullberg, he has enough areas in which he can improve. But there is undoubtedly great potential. “Lion used to be an offensive player, he is very valuable for us with his speed. But of course a player of this age still has a lot to learn.”
Rothe, Wanner & Co: Youngest debutants in Bundesliga history
30 Tom Rothe | BVB | 17 years, 5 months, 18 days – 2021/22
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