Could Jano Baxmann be Dortmund’s Brightest Young Star?

This past weekend, Borussia Dortmund took the field for a pair of preseason friendlies. Fans got a chance to see everyone from the old folks to the new signings. Even more promising were the laundry list of players from Dortmund’s reserve clubs getting minutes with first team players.

Of the reserve players who saw action this past weekend, none other looks to be as promising as Jano Baxmann from the BVB-U19 squad. Another of Dortmund’s summer signings, the former Werder Bremen left winger might not have scored, but he was brilliant during his time on the field.

Playing the first half in a friendly against SpVgg Erkenschwick on Friday, Baxmann was instrumental in creating attacking chances, including setting up the first goal of the season on a nifty combination play with Ousmane Dembele.

Additionally, Baxmann saw a lot of the ball in the first half. He was a constant threat, making darting runs into the 18-yard box. His crossing ability was on display as well. Although none of Baxmann’s crosses resulted in goals, it certainly kept Erkenschwick on edge throughout the half.

Photo by Christof Koepsel/Bongarts/Getty Images

Baxmann’s next action came against Wuppertaler SV on Saturday. Playing the second half at his off-position of right wing, he continued to get forward and create chances. On the second goal, his positioning left Amos Pieper open at the near post, leading to an easy header and decisive goal in a 2-0 victory.

Given Dortmund’s slim depth at left wing, Jano Baxmann continued to make a claim for his consideration in the team. Not quite ready for the first time, it might only be a matter of time before Baxmann gets a call-up, especially after the success both Christian Pulisic and Felix Passlack enjoyed last season.

Borussia Dortmund U19 have developed a lot of really talented players, including Mario Gotze and Marco Reus. After scoring 13 goals in 18 matches for Bremen U17 last season, Baxmann brings an offensive-minded presence to the pitch.

In addition to Baxmann’s success at the club level, his international career is only just beginning. Baxmann scored four times in 11 matches with the German U17 squad and three times in 10 appearances with the U16s.

Photo by Christof Koepsel/Bongarts/Getty Images

So could Baxmann be the next example of youth talent like Pulisic was last season? Will he become the heir-apparent to Marco Reus? Only time will tell, but the promising signs from this weekend’s friendlies can only mean good things to come from Jano Baxmann.