Borussia Dortmund forward Karim Adeyemi stated his team has “no reason to hide” as they prepare to face Real Madrid in the FIFA Club World Cup quarter-finals. Adeyemi, who contributed two assists during the tournament in the USA this summer, expressed belief in Dortmund`s potential to overcome the 15-time European champions.
“Our goal is to obviously win the game, and if we start like we did in the last match, it could definitely be very, very tough for Real [Madrid],” he commented. “But of course, we know what kind of opponent they are and the quality they have. We have to take that into account. Still, we also know what we’re capable of, and there’s no reason for us to hide.”
Adeyemi (c.) set up both goals for Serhou Guirassy (r.) in the 2-1 win over Monterrey in the round of 16.
Adeyemi also discussed the impact of Real Madrid`s new coach, Xabi Alonso, who recently joined the club after a successful spell at Bayer Leverkusen. The former Bayern Munich youth player suggested that Dortmund might be able to take advantage while Real`s squad adapts to their new manager.
“I think Xabi [Alonso] still has to prove himself to the team in these first few weeks. I believe the players also want to prove themselves to him,” Adeyemi explained. “So it’s a completely different Real Madrid than we know. We’re aware of their qualities and we also know what kind of coach Xabi is. That’s why it won’t be easy of course. But if we give everything and have a good day, then we will definitely win this game.”
Dortmund will come up against former Bayer Leverkusen head coach Xabi Alonso.
Looking ahead, Adeyemi is set to begin his fourth season at Signal Iduna Park after the Club World Cup. He spoke passionately about his connection to the club and his aspiration for a long-term future there, drawing inspiration from figures like club legend Marco Reus.
“I’ve always said that I love this club. I was a fan of this club even as a young player, my family too and yes, it’s different to think about it now,” admitted the eight-time Germany international. “If I just think of Marco [Reus], who I believe gave everything to this club and stayed loyal to it – then I think it’s amazing to say that I even want to step into those shoes. There’s still a few years to go until then, but as I said, I feel good here, and if I one day ended up playing for this club forever, I wouldn’t regret it.”
