Serhou Guirassy: BVB Striker Embraces US Football Culture at Club World Cup
Colaboradores
Borussia Dortmund's Serhou Guirassy is eagerly anticipating his first real taste of American football culture at the upcoming Club World Cup. Dortmund, alongside Bayern Munich, represents the Bundesliga in the tournament and faces Mamelodi Sundowns and Ulsan in the group stage, spanning from East Rutherford, New Jersey, to Cincinnati, Ohio. Their opening match against Fluminense ended in a goalless draw.
The revamped format of the Club World Cup introduces many unknowns, but Guirassy is confident that the United States will deliver a memorable experience for everyone involved. "It’s a World Cup," he told Sports Illustrated. "It’s different from the Nations Cup, but it’s still a World Cup. All the teams are there to win. Plus, in the United States, it’s like a football country, especially with Messi joining Inter Miami. They’re even more focused on football, making it a great competition."
While not his first visit to the United States, Guirassy admits he hasn't previously had the chance to fully immerse himself in the growing football culture. "It’s a discovery," he explained. "I’ve been to the United States, but it was in flash mode. It feels good to play football and discover other countries and cities. It's very interesting."
Following in Haaland's Footsteps at Dortmund
Guirassy acknowledges the legacy of prolific strikers at Borussia Dortmund, including Robert Lewandowski, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, and Erling Haaland. He sees wearing the No. 9 jersey as a challenge he embraces. "Dortmund has had some great strikers," he said. "The No. 9 wasn’t initially available, but I didn’t hesitate when I had the chance to get it. It’s a heavy burden, but I’m doing pretty well."
Guirassy credits Dortmund's scouting network for identifying and recruiting top goalscorers. "Dortmund always has great strikers. There’s a heavy history with Aubameyang and Erling recently. It was a big task, but I’m up to it. I didn’t think twice when Dortmund wanted to sign me."
Guirassy enjoyed a sensational debut season with Dortmund, netting 34 goals across all competitions and finishing as the top scorer in last season's Champions League. He has undoubtedly justified the club's faith in him and continues to write his own chapter in Dortmund's storied history of goalscoring greats.