Dortmund (dpa) – From scapegoat to match winner: Donyell Malen is back at Borussia Dortmund. However, those responsible for BVB are not yet really satisfied with the winning goal scorer in the 1-0 (0-0) win in the Champions League against Sturm Graz.
“I told him that I expect more from him,” said coach Nuri Sahin after Dortmund’s third win in the fourth preliminary round game, which substitute Malen decided with his late goal (85th minute). “He just has to step on the gas again this year,” demanded sports director Sebastian Kehl.
Nevertheless, the Dutchman's appearance after his substitution in the 67th minute was an important step in the right direction. “He had a lot of good actions today,” praised Kehl. “That will give him confidence.”
Malen recently seemed dissatisfied
Recently, the 25-year-old didn't seem very satisfied. There were reports that he wanted to leave BVB after almost four years. His current situation may not have helped to improve his mood. Although Dortmund have major personnel concerns and Sahin was missing nine players against Graz, Malen was once again only on the bench. Sahin emphasized that he actually urgently needed to rotate. But painting was obviously not an option for him. Malen was only substituted on in the 2-1 win against RB Leipzig on Saturday.
“I wasn’t happy with his performance against Wolfsburg,” said Sahin. Last week, Dortmund were eliminated in the second round of the DFB Cup by VfL Wolfsburg after extra time (0-1). “That was also the reason why he didn’t play,” said Sahin, but also emphasized: “He is a very important player for us.” With his important goal against Graz, Malen may be eligible for a starting eleven again in Mainz.
