Dortmund lose Mathis Albert for weeks after USA call‑up

From Sonntag (20 September) Borussia Dortmund will enter the international break without forward Mathis Albert, as the 17‑year‑old has been named in the United States of America’s 28‑man Nations League squad for matches in September and October, and will travel with the team to face Peru, Chile, Mexico and Canada.

USA Nations League call‑up

Wie the US federation announced on Thursday (17 September), Mathis Albert will join the 28‑man squad for the Nations League under coach Mauricio Pochettino. "This is the beginning of a restart for everyone and we are excited to bring together experienced players and young talents with great potential in the first games," Pochettino said, adding that it is vital everyone understands the culture, way of working and playing principle, and that each must show willingness to represent the country and fans as they deserve.

The youngster’s senior debut is scheduled for 26 September when the United States face Peru in the competition, marking his first competitive appearance for the USA.

BVB and its supporters will be without Albert for several weeks, a loss that Dortmund’s coaching staff admit comes for encouraging reasons, reflecting his rapid development and the club’s confidence in his potential.

Albert holds German, French and American citizenship, leaving the German Football Association and the French federation disappointed by his US selection. A nomination alone does not bind him; only after playing in a competitive fixture can he be permanently tied to the United States.