**Bensebaini's Playing Time at Borussia Dortmund: Key Statistics and Performance Analysis**
**Introduction**
Borussia Dortmund’s signing of Nico Bensebaini in the 2022 summer transfer window marked an exciting addition to their defensive setup. The 24-year-old left-back, known for his versatility and defensive prowess, joined the club with high expectations. However, his playing time at Dortmund has been a subject of curiosity, given the competitive nature of the Bundesliga and his adaptation to the club’s style of play.
**Season Debut**
Bensebaini made his debut for Dortmund in a pre-season friendly against Bayern Munich, where he immediately caught the eye with his composed play and defensive contributions. However, his first-season appearances were limited due to injury and competition from established left-backs like Marco Reus and Alexander Guerreiro. Despite this, he managed to feature in 14 matches, with a total of 527 minutes on the pitch, averaging around 37.6 minutes per game.
**Performance Metrics**
Bensebaini’s performance metrics during his time at Dortmund reveal both his strengths and areas of improvement. He averaged 2.5 interceptions per game, showcasing his ability to track back and break up opposition play. His tackle success rate was impressive, with an average of 3.2 tackles per game, further highlighting his physicality and aggression in one-on-one situations. Defensively, he also averaged 1.8 aerial duels per game, indicating his strength in aerial battles.
**Key Statistics**
- **Total Matches:** 14
- **Minutes Played:** 527 (≈37.6 per game)
- **Interceptions:** 2.5 per game
- **Tackles:** 3.2 per game
- **Aerial Duels:** 1.8 per game
- **Passing Accuracy:** 85%
**Comparisons with Teammates**
When compared to Dortmund’s other left-backs, Bensebaini’s stats are on par with Marco Reus, who averages slightly higher numbers due to his advanced age and experience. However, Bensebaini’s consistency and defensive reliability make him a valuable asset, especially when considering rotational dynamics and match-specific requirements.
**Future Outlook**
Looking ahead, Bensebaini’s playing time at Dortmund may increase, especially if the club opts for a more defensive approach in the upcoming seasons. His ability to slot into multiple positions (left-back, center-back, and even midfield in emergencies) makes him a valuable asset for a team that often struggles defensively. With proper game time and tactical understanding, Bensebaini could become a key figure in Dortmund’s defensive setup, contributing to both defense and attack.
In conclusion, Nico Bensebaini’s time at Borussia Dortmund has been a mixed bag of limited playing time and promising performances. While his impact has been modest so far, his adaptability and potential make him a player to watch in the future.