The right-back participated in every match for the Bundesliga club before their campaign concluded in the quarter-finals with a 3-2 defeat to Real Madrid in East Rutherford.

Despite initial hurdles in adapting to the Bundesliga and a new tactical approach after his loan from Manchester City, the 23-year-old is keen for more responsibility and determined to establish a permanent place in the team.

"I arrived here last season intending to play regularly. I left Girona to gain more playing time. The beginning was challenging, getting used to a new setting, but naturally, I want to play," Couto told Flashscore.com.

"This tournament (FIFA Club World Cup) provided me with that opportunity; I played in every match, and I believe it was a valuable experience with a high level of competition.

"I aim to maintain that momentum and continue gaining minutes. I still need to have discussions with the club, and we will see what unfolds next season. But my intention is clear; I want to remain at Dortmund."

After finishing fourth in the 2024/25 Bundesliga season, Niko Kovac’s team traveled to the United States for the global event.

They topped their group, which included Fluminense, Mamelodi Sundowns, and Ulsan Hyundai, before their journey ended in the quarter-finals against the Spanish side.

Reflecting on the experience, Couto emphasizes the positives as the team looks forward. He added: "I believe it has been a good competition overall. We performed well, especially given how challenging it was against Real Madrid.

"Sometimes football can be unpredictable, particularly in the final moments. It was a tough match from start to finish. We kept battling. When it was 2-1 and then 3-1 against us, I managed to earn a penalty and made it 3-2.

"In the very last play, we pushed for an equalizer; I was in the box and nearly scored from a cross. It was so close.

"These types of matches are never straightforward, but we learned a lot and will continue to progress. Even though it’s pre-season, the Club World Cup is a significant tournament, and it’s always a challenge.

"Despite the (weather) conditions, we managed to top our group and had a strong performance against Monterrey. Facing Madrid is always a test as they are among the best, but we gave it everything.

"We aimed for the final, but sometimes things don’t go as planned. Nevertheless, I’m proud of the effort we put forth. Now, we shift our focus and look ahead to what’s next."

Despite the disappointment, the defender cherished every moment of the tournament: "The USA is a fantastic country. We’re based in Florida, so the training conditions were excellent, and the hotel was superb.

"The locals have been very hospitable, and we enjoyed our time immensely. On our days off, the players relax and make the most of it.

"But once we return to training, it’s all about business. We work hard, stay focused, and prepare properly. "

Couto also commended Fluminense, one of the tournament’s surprise teams now in the semi-finals. The Brazilian side held Borussia Dortmund to a goalless draw in their opening match at MetLife Stadium.

He remarked: "I believe many people are supporting the Brazilian team, and rightly so. We should cheer them on; it’s a fantastic competition, and they are competing against some of the best teams in the world.

"Reaching the semi-finals is a significant achievement, and they deserve recognition for that. I’m happy for them.

"We faced them in the group stage, and it was a challenging match. They demonstrated their quality. I’ll definitely continue to support the Brazilian team."