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Mathis Albert, 16, Becomes Youngest American to Play in Bundesliga With Dortmund Debut

The appearance shows Borussia Dortmund’s habit of giving teenagers real minutes.

Overview

  • Albert entered in the 88th minute of a 4-0 home win over Freiburg at Signal Iduna Park, a result that secured Dortmund a Champions League spot for next season.
  • At 16 years and 340 days, he surpassed Gio Reyna to become the youngest American to appear in Germany’s top division.
  • He was promoted after scoring eight goals in 17 Under-19 matches and adding two goals and two assists in five appearances for Dortmund’s Under-21s.
  • SBI Soccer reports Dortmund could give him more minutes over the final three league fixtures as he integrates with the senior squad.
  • The Greenville, South Carolina native holds French and German citizenship through his parents, joined Dortmund’s youth setup in 2024, and signed his first professional contract in July 2025.