‘Each one gives us something’ – Niko Kovač happy with competition at Borussia Dortmund

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After an injury crisis to start the 2025/26 season, Niko Kovač now has a luxury problem with several players competing for each position at Borussia Dortmund. One in particular is right-wing back, which is currently shared between Julian Ryerson and Yan Couto.

Ryerson has featured in six successive Bundesliga games this season, but has started just three of those while providing three assists. Kovač opted for the 28-year-old in last weekend’s Der Klassiker against Bayern Munich, but he remained tight-lipped on who will feature against 1. FC Köln.

“I won’t answer who will play tomorrow,” said Kovač. “I’m glad I have two different types.

“Julian Ryerson will definitely be able to compete physically. Yan Couto is more of a technician. Each one gives us something: special features, qualities. Julian plays a lot with the Norwegian national team. He wants to play every game. Unfortunately that’s not possible.”

Couto meanwhile was an unused substitute last weekend, but has started in more Bundesliga games (five) than his counterpart this season.

Not currently part of Carlo Ancelotti’s Brazil setup, Couto could well start with Ryerson featuring for the Norwegian national team during the recent international break.

GGFN | Daniel Pinder