Borussia Dortmund Nears Decision on New Coach Amidst Internal Turmoil

DORTMUND, Germany — Borussia Dortmund is on the verge of appointing Niko Kovač as its new head coach, according to multiple reports, as the club navigates a turbulent season both on and off the pitch. The decision comes amid a backdrop of internal disagreements, a struggling squad, and a race against time to salvage their Champions League ambitions.

Kovač, the former Wolfsburg manager, has emerged as the leading candidate to take over the reins at Dortmund. However, sources indicate that the club views him as a short-term solution until the summer, when a more permanent appointment could be made. Ralf Rangnick, the Austrian national team coach, was also considered but is no longer in contention due to his perceived lack of popularity among Dortmund fans.

The coaching search follows the dismissal of Nuri Şahin, who was let go after a string of disappointing results. Interim coach Mike Tullberg is expected to lead the team in their upcoming Bundesliga match against 1. FC Heidenheim, as negotiations with Kovač continue.

Dortmund’s struggles this season are evident in their league position. Currently sitting 11th in the Bundesliga, the team is six points adrift of the coveted fourth spot, which guarantees Champions League qualification. The club’s sporting director, Sebastian Kehl, faces mounting pressure to deliver results, especially with the winter transfer window closing on February 3.

Transfer activity has been minimal so far, with Donyell Malen departing for Aston Villa and Salih Özcan returning from a loan spell at Wolfsburg. The club’s inability to strengthen the squad has raised doubts about their ability to compete for a top-four finish.

Internal tensions have further complicated matters. The relationship between Kehl and technical director Sven Mislintat has reportedly deteriorated, with rumors suggesting that Mislintat could soon leave the club. Hans-Joachim Watzke, Dortmund’s CEO, remains the key decision-maker, but his leadership is under scrutiny as the team’s fortunes continue to decline.

As the clock ticks down, Dortmund’s hierarchy must act swiftly to stabilize the club and reignite their season. The appointment of Kovač, if finalized, could provide a temporary fix, but the underlying issues at Signal Iduna Park suggest that a long-term solution remains elusive.