“Knows that I have qualities”

Despite his bumpy start at BVB and the accompanying criticism, Donyell Malen wants to defend himself against the image of a bad buy. Instead, the 22-year-old believes in a successful future with Dortmund.

“I know that I have qualities with which I can advance Borussia Dortmund and I am proud to play for this club,” said Malen in an interview with the Sports picture optimistic.

He is aware that BVB “paid a lot of money for me” (EUR 30 million transfer fee), but prefers to prove his qualities on the pitch. “As a striker, of course I want to help the team with goals. But also with my speed.”

After his first few months in Germany and at BVB, the Dutch international was initially said to have difficulty adjusting, but he thinks he has made an enormous step forward under coach Marco Rose. “I’ve also improved my work against the ball over the past few weeks. I notice that I understand the coach and his ideas better and better.” His promise: “I can give BVB a lot more.”

Malen also had words of praise for team-mate Erling Haaland, who is currently the top attacker of the black and yellow with 17 goals in 14 appearances. “Erling is a player who can make the difference. His ambition is contagious for us as a team. With him we are definitely stronger,” said the Dutchman.

In the current season, Malen was on the pitch a total of 22 times. He scored five goals and prepared two more goals.