Borussia Dortmund’s New Management Lineup Raises Concerns: A Threat to Club Stability

Thomas Treß, Carsten Cramer and Lars Ricken. These three will be the future the fortunes of the club lead in high position. It is surprising that the name Sebastian Kehl is left out of this list. The BVB– A sports director was considered the most promising candidate – if Dortmund, as has happened now, would prefer an internal solution.

Is Ricken’s promotion an issue for Kehl? At first glance, the answer seems clear: yes. Especially from Kehl himself at the beginning of March STAHLWERK double pass from SPIRITUAL1 has spoken of a “logical step” and strongly expressed interest in this position.

But Kehl, for whom the role of managing director has come too soon after a two-year term as sporting director, is someone who likes to work close to the team, who likes to listen in the t -locker room at games and which is also authorized to provide sport. apply for delivery. The 44-year-old feels more comfortable in the dugout than in the stands. This is another reason why this decision doesn’t have to be a downer. On the contrary. BVB does not want to do without Kehl’s services in the future and is already in talks about an early contract extension beyond the summer of 2025. He has certainly not yet reached the end of his career ladder.

There is also the question of dealing with Sven Mislintat’s staff. The 51-year-old, whose return to the club has only been an open secret for weeks, was also considered for the role of sporting director. But the “diamond eye”, as he is called because of his ability to spot talent, reports to the sports director as a technical director with a focus on team planning. This can also be interpreted as a sign for Kehl.

The name Ricken was not ubiquitous in Dortmund when it came to Watzke’s replacement, but it remains a logical solution – at second glance. Kehl and Ricken, who have shared their boots for BVB for seven years, have a lot of respect for each other. For new agent Watzke, the step into management is huge, but understandable given his career path.

After his time as a professional footballer, Ricken wanted to pursue a career in club management. In 2008, the 47-year-old took up a position at BVB as a trainer, which would take him through all departments of the club. But before he was ready, Ricken was promoted early and since then he has been working as the director of the youth performance center (NLZ), where he has done an excellent job. Under his leadership, the youth department regularly produces top talent and celebrates consecutive national titles. With the new heads Ricken and Mislintat, BVB’s talents can hope for more appreciation and support.

Ricken will definitely not be another Watzke! Fan favorite who scored an iconic goal in the 1997 Champions League final, will certainly fulfill the role of Director of Sports Management in a different way than the outgoing Watzke. Ricken is someone who doesn’t like being in the spotlight. The former BVB professional is someone who stays in the background and prefers to work in silence.

But the new line is still a threat. Not all fans like the fact that BVB is once again relying on an internal solution. Because the appetite for “outside” input was immense. The accusation: The structures of the club are too strong, processes are long, and it is very difficult to change things. This is also why the desired development did not materialize, at least in terms of national industry. The fact that a complete club legend (who has been with the club for 34 years) now takes an important role in the operating business is also a risk.

BVB create clarity early on when it comes to Watzke’s replacement. In terms of experience, the management is good and comprehensive and could help the club move forward. Prerequisite: Everyone must draw together. There should be no room for personal sensibilities. Because the black-yellow potential for conflict is still very high.