Algerian international Ramy Bensebaini (29) faces uncertainty over his place in Borussia Dortmund’s squad for the upcoming season, as the German club has shown interest in a star player from the Turkish national team participating in Euro 2024.
Last season (2023-2024), Bensebaini struggled with recurring injuries and missed playing for Algeria in the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations. Trained at the Paradou academy in Algeria, he started only 11 Bundesliga matches under coach Edin Terzic and did not play a minute in the final eight fixtures due to a knee injury recurrence.
With Terzic’s departure and Nuri Şahin taking charge, Bensebaini’s hopes of regaining a starting role have been revived, especially as he reportedly has a good relationship with Şahin, according to “Bild”. Another factor in his favor was the departure of Ian Maatsen. Dortmund had loaned Dutch defender Maatsen from Chelsea last season, where Terzic favored him over Bensebaini even when fit.
Maatsen has returned to Chelsea, and Dortmund did not make his loan permanent, with the player joining Aston Villa for €45 million, potentially opening the way for the Algerian star. However, another obstacle looms: the Turkish star.
According to Turkish newspaper “Cumhuriyet Daily”, Dortmund is negotiating with Fenerbahçe’s Turkish left-back Vedat Kadioğlu (24) for a transfer in the current summer window. Fenerbahçe reportedly values Kadioğlu at no less than €35 million. Kadioğlu, who began as a playmaker in the number 10 role, has successfully transitioned to left-back.
Dortmund faces competition from Arsenal for Kadioğlu’s signature. However, Kadioğlu’s potential arrival at Dortmund wouldn’t necessarily spell the end for Bensebaini, given his technical skills and tactical versatility to play both central defense and left-back.
Bensebaini’s future at Dortmund remains uncertain despite Maatsen’s departure. His positive relationship with new coach Şahin could work in his favor, but Dortmund’s interest in Kadioğlu indicates a desire to bolster defensive options. Bensebaini’s ability to play multiple defensive roles could be a significant asset, but he must prove he can stay fit and perform consistently throughout the season to secure his place in the team.
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