World Cup stars of the Bundesliga: Borussia Dortmund's Daniel Svensson
Borussia Dortmund defender Daniel Svensson is all set to play a key role for Graham Potter's Sweden at the FIFA 2026 World Cup this summer, after helping his country qualify through the play-off final in March.
Name: Daniel Svensson
Club: Borussia Dortmund
Nation: Sweden
International debut: 14 October 2024
Caps: 11
International goals: -
Stats correct as of 30 May 2026
How was his 2025/26 season?
Daniel Svensson started the season strong for BVB, scoring his first of the season on Matchday 5 in a 2-0 win against Mainz. His next (and only other) goal of the season would come in the season's second instalement of the Der Klassiker fixture, when he grabbed a goal and an assist in the 3-2 defeat on Matchday 24. Svensson's energetic style of play saw him accumulate the second highest amount of intesive runs (2688) as well as making more sprints (582) than any other Dortmund player.
What he brings to the national team
A full-back by trade, Svensson brings a tireless presence down the flanks for Sweden. His ability to make movements off the ball and exploit opposition spaces will be key for coach Potter's counter-attacking style.
The 24-year-old is also something of a jack-of-all-trades, demonstrating versatility through his ability to play at wing-back, in the midfield, and even as a right-sided full-back. In fact, in the all-important World Cup Qualification play-off final against Poland, he played the full 90 minutes at right wing-back.
What his coaches say
“He has a huge engine, he is a good press player and he is also comfortable with the ball.” - Former coach Johannes Hoff Thorup
“He’s a Duracell bunny. He reminds me a bit of Joshua Kimmich. He also plays every game and runs 12 or 13 kilometres. It’s the same distance in a different position, but it shows how tireless these guys are and how they march on without end.” – Dortmund head coach Niko Kovač
