Borussia Dortmund have confirmed their starting lineup for the pre-season friendly against Cerezo Osaka in Japan, handing first starts to summer signings Justin Lerma and Takato Yamamoto.
The Bundesliga side meet the J.League club as part of their Asian tour, with manager Niko Kovac set to rotate his squad extensively throughout the 90 minutes. Former Dortmund favourite Shinji Kagawa starts for the hosts, renewing acquaintances with his old club two years after featuring in a similar pre-season encounter.
Confirmed Lineups
Cerezo Osaka: Nakamura; Cools, Inoue, Hatanka, Nakamura; Yokoyama, Tanaka (c); Okazawa, Kagawa, Takahashi; Sakuragawa.
Borussia Dortmund: Meyer; Reggiani, Gadou, Mane; Kabar, Lerma, Yamamoto, Couto; Bellingham, Inacio; Guirassy (c).
The hosts appear to line up in a 4-2-3-1 formation, with captain Tanaka sitting deep alongside Yokoyama to allow Kagawa creative freedom behind the forward line. Dortmund’s selection suggests a 3-4-2-1 shape, with Guirassy leading the press and Bellingham operating between the lines.
The visitors’ substitutes include goalkeeper Drewes, defenders Albert and Azhil, midfielders Duarte, Faust, Mirza and Riedl, plus attacking options Fabio Silva, Wessels, Ritter and Adje.
Tour Context
The fixture forms a key part of Dortmund’s pre-season programme as they build towards the new Bundesliga campaign. For Lerma and Yamamoto, the match represents a first competitive outing in club colours, offering an early chance to adapt to Kovac’s tactical demands.
Kagawa’s appearance against his former employers adds an emotional dimension for the Japanese supporters in attendance. For Cerezo Osaka, the meeting provides valuable experience against elite European opposition as they compete in their domestic season.
Kovac is expected to utilise his bench heavily as the game develops, allowing the coaching staff to evaluate fringe players and new combinations before the competitive season begins.