In a recent interview (transcripted and translated by bvbbuzz.com), Borussia Dortmund chief Michael Zorc revealed that the German club are willing to put their faith on Youssoufa Moukoko and not sign a new striker during the January transfer period. The Dortmund sporting director said, “We all know Erling, who wants to be on the pitch every minute he possibly can. It’s also good for us if he is playing a lot.”
“Point two. We want to develop Youssoufa as well and not put someone ahead of him (in the pecking order). We’re already hoping that he’ll get some playing time in the coming weeks and months, because at least in training he’s already shown that he is capable.”
“And third. If we’re talking about a top striker who can help BVB alongside Erling Haaland, I have to say quite honestly – there’s also no economic basis for that in these times.”
Moukoko’s Impressive Rise At Dortmund This Season
Moukoko became the Bundesliga’s youngest starter when the new Dortmund boss Edin Terzic decided to name him in his first-team in the 2-1 win over Werder Bremen earlier this week. The 16-year-old has already made six senior appearances for the German outfit this term but is still waiting to score or assist his first goal for the club at the senior level.
The talented teenager has caught the eye by averaging 1.2 shots and 1.0 dribbles per game in the German top-flight this season. Moukoko deserves a lot of credit for distributing possession well in the opposition half as he has completed 87.5% of his attempted passes in league football (stats via whoscored).
What Are The Promising Starlet’s Best Attributes?
Moukoko is an incredibly quick striker who loves to make time his runs well in the final third. He showcases good balance and agility when dribbling with the ball and is a decent finisher in front of the opponent’s goal.
However, the German wonderkid is still quite raw and would need time before he is ready to play in the Bundesliga week in week out. At the moment, he is not ready to play in Terzic’s first XI every week but could still play an important role in his squad.
Can Moukoko Step Up To The Plate And Serve As An Ideal Deputy To Erling Haaland?
Moukoko has come through the youth ranks of Dortmund, so he is already accustomed to their football style. He is nowhere near good enough to rival Haaland for a first-team spot but could step up to the challenge and be an ideal back-up to the Norwegian striker at the Signal Iduna Park in the years to come.
The Yaounde-born talent has remarkable potential and will be a talent to watch out for in the future. If Dortmund feel like Moukoko is ready to play a sporadic role in their first-team, then they should definitely promote him and not buy a new forward during the upcoming winter transfer window.
