'We play attractive football again!' - Borussia Dortmund coach Niko Kovac signs contract extension as chief hails impact on Bundesliga side

Dortmund head coach Kovac has signed a new deal until June 2027. Initially appointed in February 2025 on a shorter contract following Nuri Sahin’s dismissal, the Croatian boss inherited a side languishing in 11th place. Fast forward six months, and Dortmund had stormed up the table, winning seven of their final eight matches to seal Champions League qualification on the final matchday. His disciplined coaching style has brought structure, defensive solidity and attacking efficiency. 

Dortmund sporting director Lars Ricken hailed Kovac’s impact when announcing the deal in the club's official press release: "Niko has dedicated himself wholeheartedly to his role at BVB. He is a football expert with clear principles, fundamentally honest, straightforward in his communication, and rewards performance. Under his disciplined leadership, we have returned to winning ways, stabilized our defensive work, scored significantly more goals than before, and played attractive football again. From the very beginning, the negotiations were very fair, respectful, and solution-oriented. This mutual trust is the foundation of our collaboration."

The extension marks a vote of confidence from BVB’s hierarchy, giving Kovac security beyond his original 2026 contract expiry. For Dortmund, stability in the dugout has often been elusive in recent years, but Kovac’s philosophy has injected fresh resilience and identity into the side.

His 3-4-2-1 system has provided a stronger tactical backbone, while physical performance indicators like running intensity and pressing data have improved noticeably. This deal also sends a clear message to rivals that Dortmund intend to build a long-term project around Kovac’s methods, much like their traditional role as challengers to Bayern Munich’s dominance in the league.

With Kovac’s future secure until 2027, attention turns to maintaining Dortmund’s momentum on two fronts, competing for a top Bundesliga finish and navigating the Champions League. His tactical approach has restored belief, but questions remain over whether the Black & Yellows can take the next step towards silverware.

Dortmund’s upcoming fixtures will test their defensive stability further, but at the moment they have their focus to clinch their first game after a draw in Bundesliga, in a clash against Union Berlin on Sunday.