# Borussia Dortmund striker hierarchy and performance

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/borussia-dortmund-striker-hierarchy-and-performance
> Updated: 2026-09-10T00:00:00.000Z. Sources: 29. Developments: 3.

Following Serhou Guirassy’s record-breaking performance in the Champions League opener against Villarreal, Borussia Dortmund manager Niko Kovac is considering tactical shifts to accommodate his attacking players. After Guirassy scored twice to reach 19 Champions League goals for the club—surpassing Robert Lewandowski’s record of 17—Fábio Silva also contributed with an assist.

Silva, who previously faced departure rumors, has emerged as a key contributor with three goals and one assist in his first four competitive matches this season. Silva noted that playing alongside Guirassy allows the duo to create more space and scoring opportunities. Consequently, Kovac indicated the team may alternate between 3-4-3 and 3-5-2 formations to utilize Guirassy and Silva as a central striking partnership.

However, the victory remains overshadowed by the medical emergency of 18-year-old Greek signing Konstantinos Karetsas. Karetsas collapsed in the 24th minute due to circulatory issues and was hospitalized. While the club stated he is doing well, the incident follows a recent ACL tear suffered by fellow Greek newcomer Giannis Konstantelias.

## Claims

- Coach Niko Kovac described striker Serhou Guirassy as a 'life insurance' for the team. (corroborated by 3 sources)
- Niko Kovac stated that Felix Nmecha is not currently at his desired physical level. (corroborated by 3 sources)
- The coaching staff intends to gradually rebuild Felix Nmecha's form. (corroborated by 3 sources)
- Felix Nmecha may not start in the upcoming Champions League match against FC Villarreal. (corroborated by 3 sources)
- Teammate Waldemar Anton believes Serhou Guirassy has potential to perform even better than his current form. (corroborated by 3 sources)
- Serhou Guirassy scored a goal against Hamburger SV and provided an assist against TSG Hoffenheim. (corroborated by 3 sources)

## Timeline

### 2026-09-10: Borussia Dortmund considers new striking duo after Champions League win

Borussia Dortmund's 3-2 Champions League win over Villarreal has prompted manager Niko Kovac to consider a tactical shift to a two-striker system featuring Serhou Guirassy and Fábio Silva.

6 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/borussia-dortmund-considers-new-striking-duo-after-champions-league-win

### 2026-09-08: Borussia Dortmund beat Villarreal 3-2 in Champions League opener

Borussia Dortmund defeated Villarreal 3-2 in their Champions League opener, led by two goals from Serhou Guirassy, but the match was marred by the mid-game collapse of youngster Konstantinos Karetsas.

22 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/borussia-dortmund-striker-serhou-guirassy-receives-praise-ahead-of-champions-league-match

### 2026-08-27: Niko Kovac clarifies striker hierarchy at Borussia Dortmund

Borussia Dortmund coach Niko Kovac has reaffirmed Serhou Guirassy as the club's primary striker, responding to dissatisfaction from Fábio Silva regarding his role as a substitute.

6 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/niko-kovac-clarifies-striker-hierarchy-at-borussia-dortmund

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Cite as: Borussia Dortmund striker hierarchy and performance. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/borussia-dortmund-striker-hierarchy-and-performance