"There are people who don't want me here" - Borussia Dortmund captain responds to criticism

Last season, Borussia Dortmund secured 4th place in the Bundesliga and Champions League qualification in the final matchday after a difficult campaign.

Although they made it to the quarterfinal of the Club World Cup, where they were eliminated by Real Madrid, who advanced to the semi-final

This led to a wave of criticism from supporters, primarily directed at team captain Emre Can, 31.

In an interview with "11Freunde", via GSP, the German international discussed Dortmund's objectives for the 2025/2026 season, their title chances, and the harsh words he received from fans.

The Borussia captain expressed optimism about the new season, stating the team can perform well domestically and in the Champions League, given Dortmund now has a more competitive squad.

Regarding the criticism, the German midfielder admitted much of it was deserved, acknowledging some significant mistakes in certain matches.

However, he also pointed out some insults were unwarranted, believing those responsible had personal issues with him.

"I was substituted in the 70th minute, and then they (St. Pauli) equalized. Shortly after, someone wrote on Instagram: 'How can anyone defend as badly as Emre?'. Then, the boys (Dortmund players) made it 2-1 late on, and we won. Then I read another message from the same person: 'We scored because Emre left the pitch. That was our luck'.

"So, he knew I wasn't on the field but still blamed me for conceding the goal. That's when I realized. It doesn't matter what I do. I don't even have to be on the pitch, and there will still be people who blame me. Those people don't want me at the club." - Emre Can for "11Freunde"

Can also confessed to being highly self-critical, blaming himself first when he makes a mistake: "I'm fully aware I haven't always played well and have made mistakes. But I'm the first person to criticize myself. I've had many sleepless nights because of this, thinking that maybe, because of me, the team lost a crucial point or points."

Finally, the Dortmund captain was asked about his role model as a captain, and he answered without hesitation: "Steven Gerrard, without a doubt. I had the chance to play alongside him at Liverpool, and for me, he represents the epitome of a captain, a true leader. Gerrard spoke very little in the dressing room, being a very reserved and polite guy. But when he did, silence fell, and that speaks volumes. I'm not necessarily the same. I'm a bit more impulsive (laughs)."

Despite recent criticism, the 31-year-old midfielder will remain Dortmund's captain, confirmed coach Niko Kovac: "I see absolutely no reason to change anything. I'm very happy with the choices made by my predecessors. Emre Can will wear the captain's armband next season."

The German player took over as Dortmund captain before the start of the 2022/2023 season when Marco Reus stepped back, encouraging his teammates to take on more responsibility.