Why Kovac’s job at Dortmund isn’t under threat at all | OneFootball

Niko Kovac has been the coach of Borussia Dortmund for a little over a year. Although BVB no longer has a chance at a title in any of the three competitions, Kovac's position at BVB appears to be very secure, according to one media outlet. Here are the reasons cited for this assessment.

Sport.de attests that BVB has had a "strong, but by no means outstanding season." The early exits from both cup competitions are anything but a badge of honor and can certainly be considered a disappointment. In particular, observers described the manner of the 1:4 knockout against Atalanta Bergamo as "desolate" and "shocking". Naturally, head coach Niko Kovac bears the main responsibility for this disappointment.

The same, however, applies to the undeniable successes in the Bundesliga. Here, Borussia Dortmund has reclaimed its status as the number 2 in German football after three years. After 25 matchdays, there have only been two defeats—both against industry leader FC Bayern Munich. BVB has been "extremely stable," winning sixteen of the remaining games and drawing seven. The club's current position is also based on "sustainable" development, which undoubtedly speaks highly of Niko Kovac.

Photo: IMAGO

Ricken "most important ally" of Kovac at BVB

Kovac also benefits from his good relationship with Lars Ricken. According to Sport-Bild, Kovac enjoys the "highest esteem" from the sporting director. The kicker even refers to Ricken as Kovac's "most important ally" at BVB. It was primarily thanks to Ricken that Borussia Dortmund chose him as head coach when it came to finding a successor for Nuri Sahin at the beginning of 2025. At that time, the other members of BVB's management were less convinced of Kovac's qualities.

Since Lars Ricken's contract with Borussia Dortmund currently runs until 2027, Niko Kovac "doesn't need to worry" about his job being in danger—despite the double early exit, concludes Sport.de.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇩🇪 here.