After 15 years at 1. FC Köln, Salih Özcan wants to take the next step in his career at Borussia Dortmund. The fact that BVB legend Matthias Sammer believes he can be “the biggest surprise” is an additional incentive for the central midfielder.
Borussia Dortmund secured the services of Salih Özcan this summer for just around five million euros. The 24-year-old started last season at 1. FC Köln under coach Steffen Baumgart, BVB didn’t hesitate for long and lured the Turkish international to Westphalia.
There, those responsible think big of the clearer. BVB advisor Matthias Sammer recently announced to “Bild” that Özcan could be “the biggest surprise” in the squad.
“I’m really happy to get such praise from a legend like Matthias Sammer,” said the native of Cologne in an interview with “Sport Bild”: “But I don’t see that as confirmation. I personally have to deliver this season and I want to prove to him that he was right in his opinion.”
He himself enjoys “showing the opponent the limits”. “Even if I lose a duel, my opponent can be sure: The next one will probably hurt,” said Özcan, describing his style of play.
“If we show that, titles are possible”
From now on, the Rhinelander will play with Jude Bellingham in BVB midfield. “It would be nice if we harmonized throughout the season,” said the newcomer from Dortmund, adding: “He’s the freer player who keeps making his way down the field. My position is a little more clearly defined, I tend to think so Back free. I think this combination will go very well.”
The black and yellow have the right to “play for titles” in the upcoming season, so the new Borussia player. “We’re trying to get the best out of ourselves, to find the best system. Our goal is to win more games without a clean sheet,” explained Özcan.
“The team’s mentality is so good that we’ll manage to be more stable and still play attractive attacking football. If we show that, titles are possible,” added the new BVB signing.