Chelsea's Ian Maatsen moves to Borussia Dortmund on loan
Ian Maatsen playing for Chelsea Credit: Peter Fitzpatrick (ETPhotos)
Bundesliga team Borussia Dortmund have announced the signing of 21-year-old Dutch youth international Ian Maatsen on loan from Chelsea until the end of the season.
The left-back, who recently passed his medical examination in Dortmund, is set to join the squad pending the completion of the loan process according to association regulations.
Sebastian Kehl, the Sporting Director of BVB, explained the move, "Due to our current personnel situation, we have decided to further strengthen in the left-back position this winter."
He praised Maatsen's versatility and speed, saying, "He's a player who brings a lot of pace, has a strong left foot and can also play in various positions."
Maatsen expressed his enthusiasm for the transfer. "Borussia Dortmund made a lot of effort to sign me... I'm very happy that the loan has now worked out," he said.
Maatsen also shared his eagerness to contribute to the team, "I promise that I'll give my all to help the team be successful."
Hailing from near Rotterdam, Maatsen developed his skills at the academies of Sparta Rotterdam and PSV Eindhoven before joining Chelsea U18s in 2018.
After various loan spells, including a successful stint at Burnley where he contributed four goals and six assists, Maatsen made his Premier League debut against Liverpool in August 2023.
The Borussia Dortmund coach commented on Maatsen's abilities, "Ian is a technically skilful player with great pace and a great left foot."
He expressed hope that Maatsen will quickly integrate into the team and enliven Dortmund's play on the left flank.
As Dortmund prepares for its first Bundesliga match of the year, the coach is looking to quickly integrate Maatsen into the team, and he will travel to Darmstadt and may be in line for selection on Saturday.
