Inside Sebastian Kehl’s Mind: Crafting Borussia Dortmund’s Summer Rebuild – Recruitment Analysis

As the 2023/2024 Bundesliga season comes to a close, Borussia Dortmund find themselves at a critical juncture.

Despite an impressive run to the UEFA Champions League Final, the club only managed to secure a fifth-place finish in the Bundesliga, marking a frustrating and inconsistent campaign. From a recruitment analysis perspective, Dortmunds strategy must address several key areas.

The departure of experienced players like Reus and Hummels leaves a void in leadership and stability, necessitating the acquisition of both seasoned professionals and young talents who can adapt to Dortmunds high-intensity, fast-paced playing style.

The focus of this analysis will be on using data and statistics to put ourselves in sporting director Sebastian Kehls shoes and find players who can contribute to a balanced and dynamic midfield, a resilient defence, and a potent attack.

Additionally, integrating new signings seamlessly into the squads existing tactics will be crucial for maintaining cohesion and consistency.

By examining the teams current tactical setup and identifying areas for improvement, this recruitment analysis aims to provide insights into how Dortmund can optimize their roster for the 2024/2025 season, ensuring they remain competitive in the Bundesliga and continue to make significant strides in European football.

Methodology

To ensure a strategic and effective rebuild for Borussia Dortmund, we employ a meticulous methodology that focuses on identifying and recruiting the most suitable candidates to strengthen the squad.

Our approach is grounded in comprehensive analysis, leveraging data to pinpoint areas in need of reinforcement.

Here’s how we systematically filter and select potential recruits for the upcoming summer transfer window:

With key departures like Marco Reus and Mats Hummels anticipated, our focus extends to filling these leadership and skill gaps.

Additionally, we consider players from Dortmunds renowned academy who are ready to step up to the first team, ensuring a balance between experienced recruits and homegrown talent.

We begin with a starting transfer budget of €40m, which has the potential to increase to up to €100m through player sales.

To maximize the efficiency and success of our recruitment process, we utilize our proprietary xGold tool.

This advanced tool filters players based on their similarity to existing squad members, thereby increasing the likelihood of seamless integration and positive impact.

xGold analyzes various attributes, such as playing style, tactical fit, and statistical performance, to generate a list of candidates who align with Dortmund’s strategic objectives.

This ensures that each potential recruit not only meets the technical and tactical requirements but also enhances the overall team dynamics and performance.

By following this rigorous methodology, we aim to assemble a Dortmund squad capable of competing at the highest levels of domestic and European football, setting the stage for a successful 2024/2025 season.

Areas to strengthen

In this summer transfer window, Borussia Dortmund must prioritize addressing long-standing problem areas to prepare for a title challenge.

The most critical positions requiring reinforcement are centre-back, left-back, and defensive midfield.

From an external perspective, the improvements under assistant coach Nuri Şahins influence since winter have been notable, with various processes and tactical elements showing positive change since his involvement.

If Şahin is indeed the driving force behind these improvements, it would be wise for the club to grant him more influence in shaping the squad and strategy.

Meanwhile, head coach Edin Terzić, having led the team to the UEFA Champions League final, seems secure in his position for now.

According to media reports, the clubs transfer budget is approximately €40m, excluding potential income from player sales.

With expected departures, this budget could increase to between €100-125m.

This substantial financial flexibility will allow Dortmund to make significant investments in these critical positions, aiming to eliminate weaknesses and build a squad capable of competing for top honours in the Bundesliga and beyond.

Outgoing Transfers (for free)

This summer, Borussia Dortmund will witness the departure of several key players as free agents, marking the end of an era for some long-serving members of the squad.

First and foremost, Marco Reus, the club captain and talisman for over a decade, will be leaving.

Reus has been synonymous with Dortmunds identity, embodying the clubs spirit both on and off the pitch.

His departure will leave a significant void in terms of his on-field contributions, leadership, and experience.

Mateu Morey, another defensive asset, will depart as well.

Moreys potential was clear, but his time at Dortmund was marred by injuries.

His exit opens up a need for reinforcement in the full-back po