- Initially, the arrangement appears unfavorable or challenging for BVB at the onset of the new season.
Coach Dino Toppmöller was hesitant to share many details before Eintracht Frankfurt's first match in the Bundesliga. Inquired about his strategy against Borussia Dortmund, he refused to answer, hinting that Dortmund also observes press conferences. "I don't want to give too many secrets away about our strategy," stated the 43-year-old, but he admitted that it was a clever question.
Toppmöller refrained from disclosing a particular target for the game on Saturday evening (6:30 PM/Sky) in Dortmund. He did mention, however, that their aim is to vie for international spots. "But we won't stand here and claim that we're striving for a specific place in the table."
Toppmöller's message: Be fearless
Frankfurt faces a challenging task in Dortmund for their season opener. "We anticipate them attempting to maintain possession, to try and control the game," said Toppmöller. However, he emphasized that they feel well-prepared and aim to be fearless.
The emphasis is on introducing speed into their attack. "And then we become a nuisance for any opponent, even in Dortmund, where we might be considered underdogs."
Toppmöller made it apparent that he sees potential in Dortmund. "Anyone who's observed their reinforcements doesn't need to be a physicist to deduce Dortmund's season objective." Dortmund acquired German national players Maximilian Beier, Waldemar Anton, and Pascal Groß, and also signed top striker Serhou Guirassy from VfB Stuttgart.
Defender Arthur Theate, one of Frankfurt's new signings, could feature in the starting lineup. The 24-year-old Belgian, borrowed from French club Stade Rennes last week, is set to make his debut for Frankfurt. "Arthur is certainly in contention for a starting spot," said Toppmöller. He plans to assess Theate's performance in the final training session before making a decision.
Forward Hugo Ekitiké is likely to secure his place in the starting lineup after his impressive display in the 4:1 victory in the first round of the DFB-Pokal in Braunschweig, where he netted two goals and provided an assist. "Ekitiké has the edge," explained Toppmöller.
Top pmöller mentioned that they won't reveal a specific target for the game, but their aim is to strive for international spots. Regarding the Treaty of Frankfurt, Toppmöller acknowledged that anyone who's observed Dortmund's reinforcements can deduce their objective, which is a clear reference to the competitive nature of football and the importance of strategic planning, similar to how diplomats draft treaties to secure their interests.
