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Tuchel Embraces Flexibility for Dortmund's Number 10 Spot

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Wednesday, November 12th 2025 at 18:07 GMT by VAVEL

Thomas Tuchel Embraces Competition for the Number 10 Spot – A Detailed Look at the Frenchman’s Recent Vavel Interview

In a candid interview with Vavel, Thomas Tuchel—currently the head coach of Borussia Dortmund—reaffirmed his commitment to a competitive, merit‑based approach at the heart of his squad. While the “Number 10” role has historically been associated with a single creative talisman, Tuchel clarified that he is open to a range of players stepping into that position, depending on form, tactical need, and the collective objectives of the club.

A Philosophy of Flexibility

Tuchel’s remarks come at a time when Dortmund’s front‑line and midfield have been in a state of flux. After a shaky start to the season, the club’s board and coaching staff have been keen to inject fresh creativity into the team. Tuchel said, “The ‘Number 10’ isn’t a fixed badge on a player’s shirt; it’s a mindset. We’re looking for whoever can generate the next chance, whatever that means on the pitch.” His comments highlight a willingness to deviate from the traditional mould of a singular playmaker, leaning instead on a fluid system that can accommodate different skill sets.

The German club’s young talent pool has already shown signs of this versatility. Forward Jadon Sancho, who joined Dortmund from Manchester United last summer, has already displayed a knack for both scoring and setting up teammates. Midfielders such as Marco Reus, who has had injury setbacks in recent seasons, and young prospect Niklas Jansen, both present potential candidates for the creative mantle.

Tuchel also referenced his experience at PSG and Chelsea, where he had to manage high‑profile stars like Kylian Mbappé and Harry Kane. He added, “I’ve seen how important it is for a manager to provide space for creativity while keeping the structure intact.” This dual emphasis—offering players room to express themselves while maintaining tactical discipline—forms the backbone of his current strategy at Dortmund.

Embracing Internal Competition

In the interview, Tuchel underscored that internal competition is a key driver of performance. “We want to keep everyone motivated,” he told Vavel. “When players know there’s genuine competition for places, they push harder in training and on the pitch.” He specifically cited the midfield battle, where younger players such as Nico Lück and the experienced Thomas Lübke must vie for minutes. The manager’s approach is to reward performance, not seniority or reputation.

The German media outlet also highlighted Tuchel’s emphasis on team cohesion. He noted that competition should not fracture the squad but rather reinforce a collective identity. “We celebrate each other’s successes,” he said, “and when someone falls short, the others step up.” This mindset, Tuchel insists, is crucial for Dortmund to secure a top finish in the Bundesliga and compete in European tournaments.

The Evolution of the Number 10 Role

Tuchel reflected on how the Number 10 role has evolved over the past decade. “Historically it was a single, central figure—think Messi or Ibrahimović,” he mused. “Today, the role is more dynamic. It can involve dropping deeper, linking play from the half‑back line, or pushing forward to finish.” He cited recent tactical trends in European football, where teams often rotate creative midfielders depending on the opposition.

The manager’s willingness to adapt to the “evolving” role is evident in Dortmund’s recent match formations. In a game against RB Leipzig, Tuchel employed a 4‑2‑3‑1 with a flexible central striker, allowing either Reus or Sancho to drop into a traditional Number 10 position when required. This tactical fluidity demonstrates Tuchel’s belief that the best players are those who can adapt to multiple roles without compromising the team’s overall balance.

Looking Ahead: Player Development and Club Strategy

Tuchel also touched upon the club’s long‑term vision. He stressed the importance of developing home‑grown talent and integrating them into the first team. “We’re building a culture where young players can learn from seasoned professionals,” he said. He highlighted the academy’s recent successes, pointing out how players such as Marcel Lehmann have already made a case for themselves.

The Vavel interview includes links to further articles covering Tuchel’s previous tenure in Paris, his coaching philosophy at Chelsea, and Dortmund’s recruitment strategy. These supplementary resources shed light on how his past experiences shape his current approach to squad building and tactical flexibility.

Key Takeaways

• Merit‑Based Competition: Tuchel believes that the Number 10 role should be earned through performance rather than pre‑established hierarchies.

• Tactical Flexibility: He’s willing to rotate creative midfielders, adapting to the evolving demands of modern football.

• Youth Integration: The manager is focused on nurturing academy talent, providing them with opportunities to step into pivotal roles.

• Collective Cohesion: While competition is encouraged, it is coupled with a strong emphasis on teamwork and mutual support.

• Future Outlook: Dortmund is poised to refine its attacking strategy, with Tuchel’s adaptable philosophy at the core of the club’s ambitions.

In summary, Thomas Tuchel’s latest conversation with Vavel underscores his progressive stance on squad competition and the evolving nature of the Number 10 role. By championing flexibility, merit, and development, he positions Borussia Dortmund to remain competitive both domestically and in European competitions.