​Borussia Dortmund are not rushing to begin negotiations with head coach Niko Kovac about a new contract, according to club CEO Carsten Cramer. Kovac is entering the final year of his current deal, and while Cramer stressed that the management is highly satisfied with his performance, the club’s immediate priorities lie elsewhere for the moment.
The core message, Cramer explained to Kicker, is that Dortmund remains extremely pleased with Kovac’s work. He also indicated that the club is in the process of finalising its squad for the upcoming season, a task that will take precedence before any formal contractual discussions begin. “Then we will begin pre-season and, just like last year, we will start the discussions at the right time. That was not the priority task during the seven weeks of holiday,” Cramer said, underscoring a disciplined approach to timing and planning.
Cramer also noted that Kovac himself is entirely relaxed about his future with Dortmund. There has been no constant stream of messages from Kovac via WhatsApp or through his agent pressuring the club for a renewal. This calm stance appears to reflect a mutual understanding of the process and the importance of aligning squad-building efforts with contract deliberations.
Kovac assumed the role of Dortmund’s head coach in February 2025, taking the reins as the team prepared for the next phase of its development. As the club enters a critical period of squad consolidation, the focus remains on on-field performance, talent acquisition, and tactical readiness ahead of the new season. The timing of any potential contract talks will be determined by the club’s overarching plans and the articulation of a clear roadmap for continuity and success under Kovac’s leadership.
Dortmund, a club with a storied pedigree and high expectations, has consistently emphasised a thoughtful, long-term approach to building a competitive squad. The decision to postpone contract negotiations reflects a broader strategy: address immediate roster needs, refine playing style and team chemistry, and then engage in contract discussions that align with both the club’s objectives and Kovac’s aspirations. This measured stance aims to ensure stability and focus during a pivotal period of recruitment and development.
In summary, Borussia Dortmund’s stance is clear: there is no rush to open talks with Niko Kovac about extending his contract beyond the current deal. The club remains thoroughly satisfied with his performance, the squad-building process is the priority, and discussions about a new agreement will be initiated at an optimal time after the pre-season preparations and once the team’s plans are more concretely defined. Kovac’s own disposition mirrors that patience, with no pressure or persistent attempts to accelerate renewal. The coming weeks will likely determine how Dortmund shapes its squad for the near future and whether any contractual decisions will follow as part of a broader, well-planned strategy.