BVB defender Ian Maatsen originally did not plan to move to Dortmund. © TH/Kirchner Media
In the winter, Ian Maatsen moved to Borussia Dortmund on loan. However, the left-back originally had other plans, as he openly admits.
Dortmund – Ian Maatsen moved to BVB from Chelsea on loan in the winter. The 22-year-old has since appeared on the field eleven times for Borussia Dortmund (one goal, two assists). The fact that he wore the black and yellow jersey for the second half of the season was not originally a priority for him.
BVB new signing Ian Maatsen did not want to move to Dortmund
In an interview with The Guardiana British daily, Maatsen said: “My plan was to stay at Chelsea.” The Dutchman thought he could compete with the “big clubs” there.
But sometimes football works “just the same way” or differently. Consequently, it is “not the end of the world” that he no longer plays for Chelsea (more transfer news about BVB at RUHR24).
Three ex-BVB professionals inspired Ian Maatsen to move to Dortmund
At the end of the day, the loan to the Black and Yellows was the “best solution” for him. Accordingly, he feels “happy to be here”. Maatsen recently spoke similarly positively to RUHR24 about his first Bundesliga goal.
In addition, BVB is a “big club where young players can develop”. As examples for his thesis, Maatsen listed the ex-Dortmund Jew Bellingham (now Real Madrid), Achraf Hakimi and Ousmane Dembélé (both Paris St. Germain).
In addition to the trio, BVB returnees Jadon Sancho, Erling Haaland and Mats Hummels, for example, also developed into world stars with the reigning runner-up.
Ian Maatsen sees himself in a position at BVB
As for his role in the BVB squad, Maatsen says: “I see myself as a left-back.” He has to be “defensively strong” at the back left, but can also move forward when there is space.
In principle, however, the Dutchman also values his flexibility: “The advantage is that I can move forward and play many positions. I feel free.”
Ian Maatsen has replaced Ramy Bensebaini at BVB. © Uwe Kraft/AFP
The BVB coaching team apparently sees things similarly. It is not uncommon for Maatsen to be found in midfield during a game.