Yan Couto’s performances at the FIFA Club World Cup have lit a fire under his ambitions to establish himself as a regular starter for Borussia Dortmund. The Brazilian right-back’s displays in the tournament offered a glimpse of his growing confidence and adaptation to the rigors of Bundesliga football after his loan move from Manchester City.
Couto featured in every match during Dortmund’s campaign in the United States, where they impressively topped a group containing Fluminense, Mamelodi Sundowns, and Ulsan Hyundai. Their run ended in a dramatic quarter-final clash against Real Madrid, where a 3-2 loss saw the Spanish giants edge through, despite Couto’s spirited performance, which included winning a penalty that brought Dortmund back into the game.
Adjusting to Dortmund’s style and the demands of German football hasn’t been seamless for the 23-year-old. Coming from Girona, his initial season involved finding his feet in a new league and tactical setup. Yet, Couto remains determined to build on his Club World Cup experience and carve out a consistent role in the squad.
He explained his mindset to Flashscore.com: “I came here last season to play regularly. Leaving Girona was about getting more minutes. It was a tough start adapting to a new environment, but I want to play more. This tournament gave me that chance, and it was a valuable experience against high-level competition.”
Dortmund’s trip to the U.S. served as a vital pre-season challenge under coach Niko Kovac, following their solid fourth-place Bundesliga finish. The group stage success provided a platform to test themselves internationally, with Couto highlighting the intensity and lessons from facing a powerhouse like Real Madrid.
“Matches like that are never easy. We fought hard, and even when down 3-1, I managed to win a penalty and make it 3-2. In the final moments, we pushed for an equalizer, and I nearly scored. It was so close,” he reflected. “We learned a lot from the experience and will keep moving forward.”
Beyond the pitch, Couto praised the professionalism of the setup in the U.S. and the welcoming atmosphere in Florida. He also applauded Fluminense, who impressed by reaching the semi-finals and holding Dortmund to a goalless draw in the group stage.
“It’s great to see a Brazilian team doing well in such a competitive tournament,” he said. “They deserved to go far, and I’m happy to support them.”
Looking ahead, Couto’s priority is clear: to build on his momentum and secure his place in Dortmund’s lineup next season. His journey so far suggests he is ready to meet the challenge.
