Borussia Dortmund hails American teen Mathis Albert on Japan pre‑season tour

Seventeen‑year‑old American forward Mathis Albert impressed Borussia Dortmund during the club’s pre‑season tour of Japan. Head coach Niko Kovač praised his speed, aerial strength and work‑rate after Albert scored in a friendly loss to Fortuna Düsseldorf and helped Dortmund to a 1‑0 win over FC Tokyo.

Albert, who debuted in the Bundesliga at 16 years 11 months as the league’s youngest American, said the higher tactical and physical demands have raised his game. He expressed a long‑term ambition to become a key player for Dortmund and to lead the team to victories. The teenager will return to Germany ahead of upcoming friendlies against Arsenal and Roma.

The praise highlights Dortmund’s confidence in the young talent as the club prepares for the new campaign.