The Daily Bee (November 10, 2020): Zagadou Close to Returning

Good morning, Fear The Wall!

Zagadou Nears Return

Our long, national nightmare is nearly over: Dan-Axel Zagadou has returned to limited team training!

Zagadou, who has been out since the summer preseason with a knee injury, will return to light team training during the international window and is looking to make himself available for return towards the end of November, Ruhr Nachricten says.

He was regularly one of the best defenders on the squad last season, and as good as the Dortmund defense has been this season, I think Zagadou’s return can push them to an even higher level. Would this mean a return to a three-man backline? Does Akanji get moved to the bench? Does Zagadou even start, given how solid Akanji has been?

While this is terrific news, it is somewhat concerning that a “small” injury turned into a six month recovery period. This also isn’t the first extensive absence due to injury, so his history of injuries is concerning. I absolutely love that mountain of a man, but if he keeps getting injured and misses extensive periods of time, the brass should explore looking elsewhere.

For now, though, welcome back to training, Dan-Axel!

Lars Ricken Contract Extended

BVB legend and current Youth Coordinator Lars Ricken had his contract extended until 2025 today. Not only did he receive an extension, he has received a new title: Director of the BVB Academy.

Dortmund’s youth academy has produced or helped develop many Dortmund and international stars such as Christian Pulisic, Nuri Sahin, Jadon Sancho, Mario Gotze, and even Ricken himself. I’m not exactly sure what a youth coordinator is, but BVB must believe that he is doing a good-enough job to retain him for another five years and give him a new title.

Congratulations, Lars!

The Daily Buzz

The international break is here. What international matches are you all looking forward to?