This decisive goal in Zagreb was not an isolated event. At the beginning of the Champions League, Dortmund were struggling at Club Brugge, and the score was still blank with 15 minutes remaining.
But Gittens inspired another 3-0 away victory, this time with two goals. The first was a deflected shot, but the second was another piece of individual brilliance as the right-footed winger cut inside from the left.
This ability to score important goals also extends to his domestic form, with two late goals earning a 2-0 win over Eintracht Frankfurt in August.
Gittens’ main role is on the left wing, and that has been a problematic role for England, with no one making the position their own.
Phil Foden played there during Euro 2024, then Anthony Gordon was Lee Carsley’s top choice during the Nations League campaign, with Jack Grealish also selected, but Gittens is a natural player who plays there regularly for a team currently It is fourth in the 36-team Champions League. table.
This has been a season in which a young man has been finding his identity, especially shortening his name from Jamie Bynoe-Gittens at the suggestion of his father.
After being a bit player last season with just three goals at Dortmund, Gittens has seven in 18 games so far in 2024-25 and has played some role in all of their competitive matches this campaign.
Bellingham became a world star in Dortmund. Gittens isn’t there yet, but he’s marking our cards as a player who could still do the same.
