Kovac backs Nwaneri to fulfil Dortmund expectations after Arsenal move

After Giannis Konstantelias suffered a torn cruciate ligament in his right knee, Borussia Dortmund reacted on deadline day by bringing in Ethan Nwaneri on loan from Arsenal as his replacement.

As BVB coach Niko Kovač revealed after Tuesday's 5-0 win over HEBC Hamburg in the DFB-Pokal, Dortmund already tried to sign the 19-year-old last year.

“It didn't work out at the time. After Konstantelias' unfortunate injury, we had to react,” he said at a press conference.

Kovač has high expectations for Nwaneri and is confident that the youngster can live up to them.

“We were already looking for someone in that position who can play one-on-one, who is quick and strong in dribbling,” he said.

“We have brought in a very good young player for the season, and I hope he can fulfil all the expectations we have of him. I am convinced that he will.”