Schlotterbeck set for new BVB deal? Book makes it clear | OneFootball

Following the change in the sporting director position, Ole Book has spoken publicly for the first time about key BVB issues. He discussed Nico Schlotterbeck’s future and his plans for the squad.

Borussia Dortmund has introduced Ole Book as its new sporting director – and the 40-year-old is immediately facing several major tasks. One of the most pressing personnel matters is the future of Nico Schlotterbeck, though Book remained cautious on the subject during his presentation.

“Of course, I’m aware of the situation. I’ve already written to Nico, and we’ll speak soon. But after only three and a half hours in the role, I don’t want to comment on it in any more detail right now,” Book said during his first public appearance at Signal Iduna Park.

The successor to Sebastian Kehl, whose departure was announced last Sunday, made it clear that he does not need a long settling-in period. “I’ll get started straight away. I feel absolutely ready,” emphasized the former SV Elversberg manager. He spent his first hours in the new job mainly getting to know the staff, the squad, and the coaching team – while also announcing: “We’ll quickly get down to the actual work.”

Book wants to find new “gems” for BVB

In footballing terms, Book stands for an offensive, attractive style of play – and a clear concept in squad planning. “The new direction will certainly be shaped by a certain level of attractiveness and an attacking style,” he said. In doing so, BVB will in future rely on a mix of experience and development potential. Sporting managing director Lars Ricken stressed: “It’s important to also safeguard sporting success to a certain extent – with a two-way strategy involving experienced players that younger players can look up to.”

Photo: IMAGO

Book’s particular strength lies in identifying previously underrated talents. He now wants to pursue that approach in Dortmund as well. “We will try to find gems that make Borussia Dortmund better,” he explained. At the same time, he emphasized that quality is not tied to leagues: “Fundamentally, I believe that good footballers are good footballers across all leagues as well.”

The challenge at BVB is nevertheless on a different scale than at his previous clubs. However, Book sees this above all as an opportunity: better analysis and scouting options, as well as greater room for maneuver. One thing is especially clear to him: “The most important thing, however, is the team’s success, and that must be viewed in the short, medium, and long term.”

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