Dortmund risk losing three key players next season

Borussia Dortmund's sporting director Lars Ricken is adopting a risky strategy for the 2025/26 season, opting not to initiate contract extension talks before the campaign starts for three key players - Julian Brandt, Niklas Süle, and Emre Can. All three players have contracts expiring in June 2026, and Ricken is prepared to potentially lose them on free transfers next summer. Head coach Nico Kovač also has a contract running until the end of next season.

Ricken stated, "We will start the season with this lineup and see how things develop. Then we will see how the future looks as the season progresses," emphasizing a wait-and-see approach. Despite periodic criticism of the players, particularly Brandt who was considered a sale candidate after a disappointing season, Ricken affirmed there is "definitely appreciation" for them. The trio has a combined market value of €40 million.

Ricken holds coach Kovač in particularly high regard, praising his honesty, straightforwardness, and resilience. He highlighted Kovač's impact in taking over when Dortmund was 11th and leading them to Champions League qualification, stating it was quickly clear Kovač was not just a short-term "firefighter" but someone who should be given the opportunity to build a team long-term.

While Ricken's relaxed stance is reportedly appreciated internally by staff, he is facing some criticism regarding the club's transfer activity so far. Dortmund has only signed Jobe Bellingham and Patrick Drewes this window, while making Yan Couto and Daniel Svensson's loans permanent. Many observers believe this level of recruitment is insufficient for Dortmund's aim of returning to the top of German football.