Peter Bosz’s job might be on the line as Borussia Dortmund once again try to push for a much-needed victory this weekend against Bayer Leverkusen.
The Black and Yellows managed to lose their four-goal lead at halftime last week when their shambolic defence decided to concede four goals in the second half against fierce rivals FC Schalke in the Revierderby.
Going into this game, the morale in the BVB camp will definitely be low and another defeat might show manager Peter Bosz the exit door. In fact, few reports already claim that Hoffenheim coach Julian Nagelsmann might take over the Dortmund job from next season.
Here’s the predicted Dortmund lineup to face Leverkusen this weekend.
Defence
By far the biggest concern for Peter Bosz at the moment, the defence will be a big issue and the Dutchman clearly needs a far more disciplinary defensive unit if they are to prevail against this dangerous Leverkusen attack.
First choice goalkeeper Roman Burki will remain injured as veteran goalkeeper Roman Weidenfeller will once again start in goal for the Black and Yellows.
Dortmund are expected to line up an unchanged squad from last week as Sokratis and Omer Toprak are all set to start in central defence. However, the shape will revert to a four-man backline, meaning Marcel Schmelzer will go back to his usual left back position while Marc Bartra will start as the right back for Dortmund.
Midfield
Dortmund were handed another blow as star midfielder Mario Gotze, who has probably been their best performer in the last few weeks, has suffered an injury that will keep him on the sidelines for about six weeks.
Former Leverkusen midfielder Gonzalo Castro will replace Gotze in central midfield, partnering alongside Julian Weigl and Shinji Kagawa.
The absence of Nuri Sahin seems justified, considering the fact that Leverkusen likes to catch opposition on the break and his lack of space might be a liability in the Dortmund midfield.
Attack
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang will lead the line for the Ruhr giants. The Gabonese International scored his first goal in six matches last week when he scored the opener against Schalke. He needs to keep his scoring boots intact if Dortmund are to have any hope of regaining their form.
Maximilian Philipp is expected to be back in the starting lineup after missing the last couple of games. While Ukrainian superstar Andriy Yarmolenko will be deployed as the right winger.
