Waldemar Anton has stepped into a leadership role at Borussia Dortmund following the serious knee injury to club captain Emre Can. The 30-year-old centre-back will wear the armband once again when Dortmund host Villarreal in Tuesday's Champions League league-phase opener at Signal Iduna Park, with manager Niko Kovac backing his decision wholeheartedly.
Anton's Leadership Sets Dortmund's Standard
Kovac has made it clear that handing the captaincy to Anton was a straightforward choice. The manager believes the experienced defender embodies the mentality required to guide the squad through a competitive European campaign. "He is someone who leads by example; someone who never gives up," Kovac explained. "That is what is needed—especially to set an example for the young players. He was already a captain in spirit last season, even without the armband, because his presence brings the other players along with him."
The German centre-back has captained Dortmund in all competitive fixtures this season since Can suffered an anterior cruciate ligament injury. His relentless work rate and unwillingness to surrender have made him a natural choice to deputise, offering continuity and stability during a transitional period for the Black and Yellows.
Dortmund Seek Strong Start Against Spanish Visitors
Anton himself reflected on the magnitude of the fixture, expressing the squad's determination to make an immediate impact. "The anticipation is huge. A home game in the Champions League is something special for every player," he said. "Last season is behind us. Now we have to move forward and take the first step tomorrow."
Dortmund enter the encounter as strong favourites. They dismantled Villarreal 4-0 at Westfalenstadion last season, recording an impressive 4.03 expected goals from 13 attempts. In contrast, the Spanish side arrives under intense pressure, having lost their last five consecutive Champions League away matches without scoring. A victory on opening night would establish early momentum for Kovac's side as they navigate the expanded league-phase format, setting a positive tone before the fixture schedule intensifies.
