Dortmund boss Lars Ricken reveals Mathis Albert was 'very close' to first Bundesliga start vs Union Berlin

Dortmund's teenage sensation edges closer to first league start

Borussia Dortmund managing director for sport Lars Ricken has revealed that 17-year-old United States forward Mathis Albert was on the cusp of making his first Bundesliga start against 1. FC Union Berlin at the weekend.

Albert, who has made two appearances for Dortmund this season, was instead introduced from the bench for 20 minutes in the 0-0 draw. Speaking to Ruhr24 ahead of Tuesday's Champions League fixture against Sabah FK, Ricken confirmed the youngster had been in serious contention to start.

"I think he was very close to starting," Ricken said.

Despite being handed only a cameo role, Ricken stressed the difficulty of the situation for such a young player entering a fragmented contest.

"Coming into a game like that, which was quite disjointed, is naturally not easy for such a young player," Ricken said.

City links no surprise to Dortmund

Albert, who earned his debut for the United States national team last month, has been linked with European heavyweights such as Manchester City. Ricken suggested the interest was expected given the club's long-standing belief in the teenager's ability.

"We've known for some time that he is a good, talented player," he said. "When we signed Mathis, all the big clubs were already after him. His appearances for the national team have naturally brought him even more attention."

The comments come after Dortmund sporting director Ole Book reaffirmed on October 17 that Albert, reportedly valued at around €20m, remains central to the club's long-term plans despite the Manchester City speculation.