### Hummels' Impressive Assist Count During Borussia Dortmund Era Highlighted
Lars Bender, once a key midfielder for Borussia Dortmund, once famously said, "Mats Hummels is one of the best defenders I've ever played with. He's not just a defender; he's a football player." This statement, made years ago, still resonates today, especially when considering Hummels' impressive assist count during his tenure with Borussia Dortmund.
**Hummels: The Versatile Defender**
During his time at Dortmund, Mats Hummels showcased an uncanny ability to transition from defense to attack. Although he was primarily a central defender, his vision, timing, and football intelligence often saw him springing into the midfield to set up goals.
**Key Moments**
Hummels' assist tally for Dortmund is quite remarkable. His first season with the club in 2010/11 was particularly fruitful, as he contributed with three assists. However, it was in the following season, 2011/12, that he truly started to make his mark. That season, Hummels racked up six assists, helping Dortmund secure a runners-up spot in the Bundesliga and a Europa League final appearance.
One of the standout assists came in a match against FC Schalke 04, where Hummels' pinpoint pass set up Robert Lewandowski for the winner in a 4-1 victory. His ability to find his teammates with precise through-balls was a game-changer for Dortmund.
**A Leader by Example**
Hummels' assist count not only highlights his skill set but also his leadership qualities. As a central defender, he led by example on the pitch, and his contributions in both defensive and attacking areas helped Dortmund build a strong team identity.
**Legacy**
As Hummels' career evolved, so too did his assist record. Throughout his time at Dortmund, he accumulated a total of 20 assists in all competitions. Although the German international is no longer with the club, his impact on Dortmund's success during that period is undeniable.
Hummels' impressive assist count during his Borussia Dortmund era serves as a testament to his versatility and footballing intelligence. His ability to influence games from the back made him not just a defender, but a pivotal part of Dortmund's attack.