Dortmund Confirms Julien Duranville Shoulder Surgery After Club World Cup Injury

Borussia Dortmund has confirmed that 19-year-old Belgian winger Julien Duranville will undergo surgery following a shoulder injury sustained during the FIFA Club World Cup quarter-final against Real Madrid. This injury marks the fifth serious setback in Duranville's young career, limiting him to just 27 first-team appearances since joining Dortmund in January 2023. Sporting director Sebastian Kehl expressed frustration over the injury, especially given the efforts made last season to improve Duranville's physical stability, but remains optimistic about his recovery due to the player's outstanding talent. The exact duration of Duranville's absence remains uncertain, but the injury is expected to sideline him for several months, further impacting Dortmund's plans to fill the winger position after Jamie Gittens' departure. The club may intensify efforts to sign Belgian winger Johan Bakayoko from PSV Eindhoven as they contend with Bayer Leverkusen for his acquisition. Despite these challenges, Dortmund continues to view Duranville as a key young talent with significant potential for the future.