Borussia Dortmund Faces Team Dynamics Challenges Under Coach Kovac Amid Player Criticism

Borussia Dortmund recently clinched a 2-0 win against TSG Hoffenheim, advancing to third place in the Bundesliga. Despite the positive result and a solid defensive record—having conceded only 11 goals in 13 matches—key players have expressed concerns about the team's style and selection under coach Niko Kovac.

Midfielder Julian Brandt, who scored the opening goal against Hoffenheim and matched the club appearance record of 284 held by Stefan Chapuisat, openly criticized Dortmund's current playing style. Brandt stated, "If I'm honest, this is not my way of playing football," pointing to a disconnect between the team's rigorous running and the quality of their attacking play. While acknowledging the fitness level and strong defense under Kovac, he emphasized the need to improve the offensive strategy to enhance the team’s overall performance.

In addition to tactical criticism, squad selection issues have surfaced. Young winger Julien Duranville, recently recovered from a shoulder injury, was excluded from the matchday squad against Hoffenheim and the prior DFB-Pokal loss to Bayer Leverkusen. Having struggled with six injuries since his transfer in January 2023, Duranville has played only 27 competitive matches, managing one goal and one assist. Kovac highlighted the intense competition for places, saying, "It is difficult for him to be part of it. We are at BVB, and there are really good players around. He is one of them, but the others are better!" This stark reality raises questions about Duranville’s future prospects at Dortmund.

Brandt, whose contract expires in summer, remains in negotiations for an extension, maintaining an optimistic outlook with the club’s management. Meanwhile, Dortmund’s defensive solidity stands out as a positive under Kovac amid ongoing efforts to fine-tune the team’s attacking cohesion and balance.

As Borussia Dortmund navigates these internal challenges, the coming months will be critical for Kovac to unify the squad’s playing style and manage player development amid fierce competition to maintain the club’s top-tier Bundesliga ambitions.