
Niko Kovač (foto: uradna spletna stran kluba)
Niko Kovač takes over as Borussia Dortmund's new manager, replacing Nuri Sahin. The Croatian coach aims to revive BVB’s season, starting with a crucial match against Stuttgart.
Niko Kovač has been officially unveiled as the new head coach of Borussia Dortmund, stepping in after the club dismissed Nuri Sahin on January 22 following a run of four consecutive defeats.
Kovač takes charge at Signal Iduna Park, replacing interim coach Mike Tullberg, who secured two wins and a draw in his brief spell at the helm. The 53-year-old former Bayern Munich and Wolfsburg manager expressed confidence in his new squad during his first press conference.
"What’s positive is the last three games. We’ve seen that the team has the necessary quality. For me, the squad is really good," said Kovač.
"A lot comes down to confidence. Yes, there was a period where things weren’t going well, but the last three matches were fantastic. Mike did a great job, and we’re all grateful for that."
Dortmund in crisis mode
Despite reaching the Champions League final last season, Dortmund is struggling domestically, sitting 11th in the Bundesliga and at risk of missing out on European qualification. They finished 10th in the Champions League group stage rankings, which means they will face Sporting CP in the playoff round.
Kovač is determined to get Dortmund back on track, starting with his first match in charge against Stuttgart on Saturday.
"We’re 11th in the table, and our next match is a big one at home against Stuttgart. We want to win it and take the next step forward. Dortmund belongs at the top," he insisted.
The Croatian also confirmed that Emre Can will remain team captain, emphasizing the importance of stability and confidence within the squad.
"We won’t be reinventing everything. The key is to instill belief and give the players the confidence they need," Kovač added.
A well-traveled coaching career
Kovač brings vast Bundesliga experience, having previously managed Eintracht Frankfurt, Bayern Munich, and Wolfsburg, as well as a spell at AS Monaco. He also coached the Croatian national team from 2013 to 2015.