Thanks for background.
by CuzTeahan (2018-07-24 11:45:13)

In reply to: Expanded playing time probably won't happen.  posted by baloo88


Any view on his diminished production last year and their plans for Pulisic's development?




I'm not an expert, just a BVB fan. So take this FWIW.
by baloo88  (2018-07-24 21:13:25)     cannot delete  |  Edit  |  Return to Board  |  Ignore Poster   |   Highlight Poster  |   Reply to Post

First, I think Pulisic was better last season than in 2016-17. However, I think many expected him to make a huge leap, and his progress is 2017-18 was more modest. For most of Bosz's tenure, despite being played in a more defensive role, Pulisic was Dortmund's most aggressive and effective attacking player. He didn't have goals and assists to show for it, but he was very influential, especially in the early part of the seasom. Stöger played him in a more advanced role, and the stats started to more closely reflect Pulisic's impact. I think his assist stats were bolstered by having a more effective finisher than Aubameyang on the end of his crosses.

Of course, because of his growing influence and the absence of Reus, Pulisic drew a lot more attention from opposing defenses. I think the pressure took a toll on him, physically and mentally. The return of Reus and Maxi Philipp and the emergence of Jadon Sancho helped lighten his load. If those guys stay healthy and Dortmund pick up a solid striker, I think we'll see Pulisic's production tick up this season.


Danke. *
by CuzTeahan  (2018-07-25 14:25:49)     cannot delete  |  Edit  |  Return to Board  |  Ignore Poster   |   Highlight Poster  |   Reply to Post


Bosz was an awful choice for Dortmund
by wcnitz  (2018-07-25 10:26:18)     cannot delete  |  Edit  |  Return to Board  |  Ignore Poster   |   Highlight Poster  |   Reply to Post

That just ruined the season completely. He had the wrong mentality for that club.


BVB also had a very down year
by spade  (2018-07-25 00:57:58)     cannot delete  |  Edit  |  Return to Board  |  Ignore Poster   |   Highlight Poster  |   Reply to Post

So, it wasn't just Pulisic that had a underwhelming season, the whole squad did. They BARELY qualified for Champs as it was a close close race for the last 2 top4 spots and the Europa spots.

The game that I remember most clearly was their 4-4 tie vs archrival Schalke when they squandered a 4 goal lead. That was Dortmund in a nutshell; amazing enough to score 4 goals in 1 half, poor enough to squander that away to their archrival. Coincidentally Pulisic seemed to be the only one who didn't score that day.

I really hope BVB can switch it around for 2018-2019. Just not enough to beat Werder Bremen. I liked getting a win and a tie last season quite a lot. But seriously, best of luck, they are my favorite team that actually has a chance in the Bundesliga.