Mats Hummels Departs Borussia Dortmund: A New Chapter Begins
In a significant development for Borussia Dortmund and its devoted fanbase, veteran centre-back Mats Hummels departs Borussia Dortmund, becoming a free agent. After a distinguished career spanning 13 years with the “Black & Yellows,” Hummels bids farewell to the club where he solidified his reputation as one of Germany’s premier defenders.
Reflecting on his departure, Hummels expressed deep gratitude and emotion: “Borussia Dortmund fans, my time at the Black & Yellows has come to an end after 13 years in total. It was a huge honour and a joy for me to play for BVB for such a long time, and to be almost ever-present on the journey from 13th place in the table in January 2008 to what Borussia Dortmund represents today. This club and its fans are special – and for me they’re much more than that.”
Hummels’ Journey with Borussia Dortmund
Hummels’ journey with Dortmund began in January 2008 when he joined the club on loan from Bayern Munich. His move was made permanent in February 2009 for a fee of €4 million. The defender’s impact on the team was immediate and lasting, contributing to Borussia Dortmund’s resurgence in German and European football. During his time at the club, Hummels made over 500 appearances and played an instrumental role in securing two Bundesliga titles and reaching the UEFA Champions League final in 2013 and 2024.
Stint with Bayern Munich
His career also included a stint with Bayern Munich, where he won the Bundesliga in each of his three seasons before returning to Dortmund in 2019. Hummels’ consistency and leadership were key factors in Dortmund’s defense, and his departure marks the end of an era for the club.
International Career
On the international stage, Hummels has been a stalwart for the Germany national team since 2010, earning over 70 caps. He has represented his country in multiple major tournaments, including the 2014 and 2018 FIFA World Cups and UEFA Euro 2012, 2016, and 2020. Notably, he was part of the squad that won the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil.
Future Prospects
As Hummels transitions to free agency, speculation about his next destination is rife. Both AC Milan and Roma have been mentioned in the media as potential suitors for the experienced defender. AC Milan, with its storied history and recent resurgence in Serie A, could provide an enticing challenge for Hummels. The Italian club boasts top players like Olivier Giroud, Rafael Leão, and Christian Pulišić, who could benefit from Hummels’ defensive prowess.
Roma, another potential destination, would also be a fitting stage for Hummels to continue his career. Given Roma’s rich history and passionate fanbase, Hummels’ leadership and experience could be invaluable as the club aims to compete at the highest levels of Italian and European football.
Farewell Message
Hummels concluded his farewell with heartfelt thanks to the Dortmund community: “I would also like to thank all the staff at BVB, who do outstanding work for this club, plus of course the countless fantastic coaches and teammates I have worked and played alongside. I hope that I can see you all again celebrating on Borsigplatz as soon as possible. Until then, I will be cheering for this club from afar – and hopefully often in the stadium as well. I will miss you all.”
As Mats Hummels embarks on the next chapter of his illustrious career, fans and pundits alike will be eagerly watching to see where the iconic defender lands next. Whether in Italy or elsewhere, Hummels’ presence on the pitch is sure to be felt, and his legacy at Borussia Dortmund will remain indelible.
