Erling Haaland's Role at Borussia Dortmund Analyzed Through Playing Time Statistics

# Erling Haaland's Role at Borussia Dortmund Analyzed Through Playing Time Statistics

Erling Haaland's arrival at Borussia Dortmund in 2022 marked the beginning of a new era for the club. The Norwegian striker quickly established himself as a pivotal figure in the team, not just through his goal-scoring ability but also through his work rate, leadership, and influence on the team's performance. This article delves into how playing time statistics highlight Haaland's role at Dortmund and his impact on the squad.

## Playing Time Analysis

One of the most striking aspects of Haaland's tenure at Dortmund is his consistent playing time. During the 2022-2023 season, Haaland appeared in 35 out of 38 possible matches, amassing an impressive 2,554 minutes on the pitch. This represents over 95% of the matches he played, showcasing his durability and importance to the team. His availability has been a cornerstone of Dortmund's success, allowing manager Marco Rose to utilize him in various positional roles.

Haaland's versatility has been a key factor in his ability to consistently contribute. Initially, he was deployed as a lone striker, a role that requires not only scoring ability but also the ability to break down defenses. His physicality, pace, and clinical finishing made him a formidable threat in this position. However, as the season progressed, Haaland began to share the striker role with other forwards, such as Anthony Modeste and Hugo Cuco, but he remained a constant presence in the starting lineup.

## Impact on Team Performance

Haaland's contributions extend beyond the statistical highlights. His goal-scoring rate is among the highest in Europe, with him netting 36 goals in 35 matches last season. This translates to a goal every 68 minutes, a remarkable feat for a striker. His ability to score late goals has also been a game-changer, with several matches where he scored in the 80th minute or later to secure victories for Dortmund.

Moreover, Haaland's assist rate is another indicator of his all-around game. He contributed 13 assists last season, demonstrating his willingness to selflessly create opportunities for his teammates. This playmaking ability, combined with his goal-scoring, makes him a well-rounded forward who can influence matches in multiple ways.

## Key Statistics and Trends

Some of the most telling statistics from Haaland's season at Dortmund include:

- **Goals per game:** 1.03

- **Shots on target:** 3.5 per game

- **Key passes:** 2.5 per game

- **Tackles won:** 1.2 per game

These numbers highlight his ability to not only score goals but also to impact the game in other areas. His work rate is evident in the number of sprints he completes, while his physicality is reflected in his success in aerial duels.

## Conclusion

Erling Haaland's role at Borussia Dortmund has been defined by consistency, versatility, and impact. His playing time statistics reveal a player who is not only a goal-scoring machine but also a key contributor in all aspects of the game. As Dortmund aim to challenge for silverware, Haaland's presence provides the foundation upon which the team's success is built. With his contract set to expire in 2024, the club will be under pressure to secure his long-term future, ensuring that he remains a central figure in their quest for glory.

In summary, Erling Haaland's role at Borussia Dortmund is a perfect blend of statistics and influence, making him one of the most important players in European football today.