Borussia Dortmund’s 2022 Summer Transfer Window: In-Depth Analysis of New Signings
The 2022 summer transfer window marked a significant reshuffle for Borussia Dortmund as they aimed to construct a robust squad for the upcoming Bundesliga season. Following the high-profile departure of Erling Haaland, the club moved swiftly to bring in several promising talents, hoping to bolster both attack and defense under head coach Edin Terzic. This article examines each major signing, their playing style, and their potential impact on Dortmund’s ambitions for the 2022-23 campaign.
Karim Adeyemi: Injecting Pace and Dynamism into Dortmund’s Attack
Arriving from Red Bull Salzburg, Karim Adeyemi steps into the frontline with the daunting task of following in the footsteps of prolific strikers that have thrived at Dortmund. Unlike the physically imposing Haaland, Adeyemi brings a lighter, yet equally rapid, presence enhanced by his technical agility. His main assets include:
– Exceptional acceleration and ability to exploit defensive lines on quick transitions
– Versatility to operate as a lone striker or alongside a partner in a two-forward formation
– Skilled link-up player, adept at combining with midfielders and wingers
– Notable two-footedness and precise dribbling in tight spaces
– Energy and intelligence as a presser, fitting Dortmund’s high-octane style
Dortmund’s attacking philosophy, built on fluid movement and incisive counter-attacks, should allow Adeyemi to flourish, especially if paired with a more traditional center forward. Should the club finalize the signing of another striker such as Sébastien Haller, tactical flexibility could see Adeyemi transforming seamlessly between leading the line and playing a supporting role.
Sébastien Haller: The Target Man Providing a New Dimension
Reports suggest Dortmund were close to finalizing the arrival of Sébastien Haller, previously of West Ham United and Ajax. Haller’s skillset offers a contrast to Adeyemi’s nimble approach:
– Strong aerial presence, winning 63% of aerial duels in the Eredivisie (and 53% in Champions League play)
– Excellent hold-up play, enabling teammates to advance and creating space for runners like Adeyemi
– Natural ‘target man’ who attracts defenders, opening up opportunities for creative midfielders such as Marco Reus and Julian Brandt
– Robust performer in possession, comfortable receiving the ball under pressure and spinning away from defenders
In the 2021-22 season, Haller netted 21 goals and provided 7 assists in 31 league appearances for Ajax, highlighting both his finishing and playmaking qualities. For Dortmund, Haller represents the classic striker capable of leading the line or serving as an effective “Plan B” in tight matches, giving the team an added tactical edge.
Salih Özcan: Reinforcing and Energizing Central Midfield
Relatively under the radar outside Germany, Salih Özcan joined from FC Köln as a solution to Dortmund’s midfield vulnerabilities—especially in defensive transitions and ball recovery:
– Outstanding ball-winner and disruptive force in central areas, with a 42% pressure success rate in the Bundesliga (among the best in Europe’s top leagues)
– Consistently executed over 8 successful pressures per game for Köln, putting him in elite territory for defensive output
– Excellent positional sense, supporting interceptions and 1v1 defending against pacey attackers
– Reliable passer with a long pass completion rate of 72.8%, second only to Axel Witsel among Dortmund’s midfielders last season
– Capable of driving forward on the dribble and initiating counter-attacks
– Occasionally took set-pieces, contributing to his average of 0.7 key passes per game
Özcan is expected to take on a dual role: shielding the backline and contributing to ball progression, offering qualities similar to both Axel Witsel and Mahmoud Dahoud. His addition strengthens Dortmund’s ability to control the midfield and minimize exposure during transitions.
Niklas Süle: Experienced Defensive Powerhouse
Niklas Süle arrives on a free transfer from Bayern Munich, bringing a wealth of top-level experience and physical dominance to Dortmund’s defense:
– Seasoned winner with 14 trophies over five years at Bayern
– Retains impressive speed despite his build, crucial for coping with counter-attacks
– Won 65% of dribbler challenges in the previous season, indicating strong 1v1 defensive ability
– Aerially dominant, matching outgoing defensive leaders like Mats Hummels
– Reliable ball progression skills: 82.9% long pass success, with more than 10 passes per game attempted under pressure; performed over 6 progressive passes and 5 progressive carries per 90 minutes
Süle’s defensive presence and ability to start attacks from the back are expected to fortify Dortmund’s rearguard, especially in situations where the team faces rapid counterthrusts.
Nico Schlotterbeck: Modern Left-Footed Centre-Back With All-Round Qualities
Joining from SC Freiburg, Nico Schlotterbeck is widely regarded as one of Europe’s most promising defenders. He brings:
– Ability to advance possession both by passing and carrying the ball forward
– Left-footed profile, offering balance to Dortmund’s build-up play and greater tactical options
– Robust physicality and fierce commitment in duels
– Offensive contribution, evidenced by 4 goals, 1.2 shots, and 1.68 shot-creating actions per 90 minutes last season
– Suitability for both two- and three-center-back formations
Schlotterbeck complements Süle well and, alongside Akanji or as part of a three-man defense, could solve long-standing defensive fragilities. His progressive tendencies also help connect defense to midfield seamlessly—a trait valued in Dortmund’s style.
Summary: A Reshaped Dortmund Ready for the New Season
Borussia Dortmund’s summer recruitment stands out as comprehensive and forward-thinking. To address the loss of Haaland, the club has combined Adeyemi’s pace and finishing with the potential firepower and physicality of Haller. The central midfield, a previous weak point in transition, is upgraded with Özcan’s pressing and positional acumen. In defense, both Süle and Schlotterbeck deliver a significant boost in athleticism, leadership, and technical abilities.
Collectively, these signings reinforce all key areas—attack, midfield, and defense—positioning Dortmund as genuine contenders for silverware. The blend of youth, talent, and experience gives fans reasons to be optimistic as they look ahead to the 2022-23 campaign.
