Yan Couto arrived at Borussia Dortmund with considerable expectations, but the €25 million Brazilian right-back is increasingly resembling a transfer miscalculation. After two seasons in the Bundesliga, his output remains underwhelming relative to the investment, prompting serious questions about his future at the club.
The 23-year-old defender's 2026 campaign proved particularly challenging. While he managed six goal contributions—three goals and three assists—across the season, five of these arrived during the opening half of the campaign. A promising start deteriorated sharply, with manager Niko Kovac gradually phasing him out of the starting lineup. Since late February's 2-3 defeat to Bayern Munich, Couto has received just 41 minutes of playing time across the remainder of the season.
Benching and Competition
The arrival of Julian Ryerson as a competing option at right-back accelerated Couto's decline. The Norwegian enjoyed a career-best season, providing 18 assists and establishing himself as Dortmund's primary attacking outlet on the flank. Kovac's tactical preference for Ryerson left little room for Couto, who found himself watching from the bench in 27 of the 72 matches under the Croatian manager—a concerning 37.5% rate. Nine of those substitute appearances came in 2026 alone.
Early in the season, Couto showed genuine improvements. His positioning sharpened, technical errors decreased, and his physical presence strengthened considerably. He drifted inside from the wing more frequently, and his crossing became more incisive. However, he could not sustain this trajectory, and Ryerson's exceptional form overshadowed any defensive contributions Couto might offer.
Off-Field Struggles and Uncertain Future
Beyond the pitch, adjustment difficulties plague the defender. During last summer's Club World Cup, Couto told Brazilian broadcaster SporTV: "I didn't expect moving to Germany to be so different—both personally and in dealing with the cold and the people, who tend to keep to themselves." His candid remarks revealed the cultural and personal challenges many Brazilian players face in the Bundesliga, a factor that intensifies when regular playing time evaporates.
With Ryerson expected to remain the primary right-back option next season, Couto's departure appears increasingly likely. A loan move, permanent transfer, or continued marginalisation seems unavoidable. At 23, the defender still possesses resale value, but another season of limited opportunities would severely diminish his prospects. For Dortmund, recouping even a portion of the €25 million investment now represents the more realistic outcome.
