Niko Kovac’s Position at Borussia Dortmund Remains Strong

Niko Kovac has been leading Borussia Dortmund for just over a year. Despite BVB’s elimination from title contention in all three competitions, one media source indicates that Kovac’s role at the club remains secure. Below are the reasons outlined for this conclusion.

Performance Overview

Sport.de assesses that BVB has experienced a “solid, yet not exceptional season.” The team’s early departures from both cup tournaments are far from commendable and are viewed as disappointing results. In particular, the team’s 1-4 defeat against Atalanta Bergamo has been described by observers as “dismal” and “startling.” Naturally, the head coach, Niko Kovac, carries the brunt of the responsibility for this outcome.

Success in the Bundesliga

Conversely, there are notable successes within the Bundesliga. Borussia Dortmund has regained its position as the second-best team in German football after a three-year hiatus. As of 25 matchdays, the team has suffered only two losses—both to the league leaders, FC Bayern Munich. BVB has shown “remarkable stability,” achieving victories in sixteen matches and drawing seven. The current standings reflect a “sustainable” progression, which certainly reflects positively on Niko Kovac’s coaching.

Relationship with Management

Kovac also enjoys a strong rapport with Lars Ricken. According to Sport-Bild, Kovac is held in “high regard” by the sporting director. Kicker even refers to Ricken as Kovac’s “most significant supporter” within BVB. It was largely due to Ricken’s influence that Borussia Dortmund appointed Kovac as the head coach when seeking a successor to Nuri Sahin at the start of 2025, despite some reservations from other members of the club’s management.

Job Security

Given that Lars Ricken’s contract with Borussia Dortmund extends until 2027, it appears that Niko Kovac “has little to worry about” regarding job security, despite the recent early cup exits, as concluded by Sport.de.