Borussia Dortmund has seen better days. Following the defeat against Bologna and the dismissal of Nuri Sahin, there are reports of an internal power struggle. Additionally, the search for a new coach is not going smoothly.
Borussia Dortmund’s struggles on the pitch seem to reflect deeper issues within the club’s management.
The defeat to Bologna has only added fuel to an already tense situation, with the club not only grappling with poor performances but also facing significant internal turmoil. The departure of Nuri Sahin as head coach has left the team without clear leadership, and the search for his successor has been far from straightforward.
Roger Schmidt, widely regarded as an ideal candidate due to his track record with PSV and Benfica, was Dortmund’s first choice. However, the experienced coach has ruled himself out of the running, citing his current desire to step away from management. Speaking on the 360Media podcast, Schmidt said, “For me, it’s a very clear decision right now that I’m not going to do anything.” Schmidt, who was dismissed by Benfica in late August, appears to be taking time to reflect before considering his next move.
With Schmidt out of the picture, Dortmund has reportedly turned its attention to other options, including Niko Kovac. The former Bayern Munich and VfL Wolfsburg manager is another name being linked with the role, but Kovac himself has downplayed the rumors. “I haven’t heard anything,” Kovac remarked, suggesting that Dortmund’s search for a new head coach is still in its early stages.
While the lack of clarity regarding Sahin’s replacement is concerning, the greater issue appears to be the escalating power struggle behind the scenes. According to German broadcaster Sky, a rift has developed between technical director Sven Mislintat and sporting director Sebastian Kehl. The two senior figures reportedly have a strained relationship, with significant disagreements over the club’s direction and decision-making processes.
Mislintat, who has a reputation as a bold and assertive figure, is said to have clashed with Sahin over player recruitment. One notable incident involved Rayan Cherki, with Mislintat reportedly pushing to sign the French talent against Sahin’s wishes. This disagreement was indicative of a broader issue: Mislintat’s willingness to act independently, often without consulting Kehl or others in the hierarchy.
Another example of this dynamic emerged during the attempted signing of Yankuba Minteh, a former Feyenoord player who ultimately moved from Newcastle United to Brighton & Hove Albion. Mislintat is believed to have negotiated directly with Minteh’s representatives, bypassing Kehl entirely. Such unilateral actions have reportedly caused significant friction within the club’s leadership structure.
Analysts and commentators have begun to weigh in on the turmoil at Dortmund, with Lothar Matthäus offering a sharp critique of the current state of affairs. “The unrest starts at the top,” Matthäus said during a segment on Sky. “Of course, it’s difficult to have to dismiss people. But a decisive step needs to be taken. You have to acknowledge these mistakes and correct them.” Matthäus’ comments underscore the perception that Dortmund’s issues are not just tactical or managerial but deeply rooted in its organizational structure.
The tension within the leadership has inevitably impacted the team’s performance on the field. Dortmund’s recent loss to Bologna has left them in a precarious position, with confidence among players seemingly shaken. Fans, who have long been accustomed to Dortmund challenging at the top of the Bundesliga and competing in Europe, are growing increasingly frustrated. The club’s failure to secure a clear vision and cohesive strategy has left supporters questioning the direction of their beloved team.
Adding to the pressure is the broader competitive landscape. Rivals like Bayern Munich and RB Leipzig continue to strengthen their squads and operate with a sense of stability, while Dortmund appears to be drifting. The failure to replace Sahin quickly and effectively has only exacerbated the sense of uncertainty surrounding the club.
For Dortmund, the path forward is fraught with challenges. Finding a new head coach who can not only deliver results but also navigate the complexities of the club’s internal politics will be critical. Whether it’s Kovac, another established manager, or a surprise candidate, the next appointment must be someone capable of uniting the squad and the management team.
Moreover, resolving the rift between Mislintat and Kehl will be equally important. The current discord threatens to undermine any progress on the field, and unless the leadership can find common ground, the club risks further stagnation. Clear communication, defined roles, and a shared vision will be essential if Dortmund is to move forward.
In the meantime, the pressure on players and staff will only continue to mount. Dortmund’s identity as a club that develops talent and competes at the highest level is at stake, and the coming weeks could prove pivotal in determining its future. For now, however, the once-mighty Borussia Dortmund appears to be a club searching for its footing both on and off the pitch.
