Kovac satisfied with BVB progress

As Borussia Dortmund wrap up their six-day training camp in Saalfelden, Austria, head coach Niko Kovac offered a positive assessment of his team’s progress ahead of the 2025/26 season.

Speaking after Dortmund’s final open training session in front of 1,800 enthusiastic fans, Kovac expressed satisfaction with both the intensity of the sessions and the attitude within the squad, as per Kicker.

“Even today, despite it being an open session, we still worked physically. The boys have had some tough days, especially Tuesday’s session, which was very demanding,” said Kovac.

Kovac acknowledged that while his side is not yet at full capacity, the trajectory is encouraging: “Based on the test matches and the data we’ve collected, we’re at a solid level. Of course, friendlies are one thing and competitive matches are another, but I’m happy with where we’re at right now.”

With Dortmund’s DFB-Pokal opener at Rot-Weiss Essen set for August 18, followed by Bundesliga clashes against St. Pauli and Union Berlin, Kovac knows time is short to finalise his starting XI.

“We still have work to do, but just like last season, we’ll fine-tune during the early part of the campaign. Everything should be in place by the international break.”

Kovac also made it clear that internal competition is fierce – and that’s exactly how he wants it.

“There will be borderline decisions, and that’s a good thing. I’d rather have tough choices to make than a clear-cut starting eleven. It means we have real competition, and that pushes everyone.”

“They’ve understood that every training counts. Everyone’s fighting for their spot – and that’s the spirit we need.”

Kovac also gave injury updates: “Nico [Schlotterbeck] is doing more and more on the pitch. He worked hard in the gym over the past weeks, and now he’s back on the grass, although still avoiding physical contact.”

On Emre Can: “He’s improving, but we’re not going to rush him. I want Emre fully fit and healthy.”

Cole Campbell missed training on Friday due to a thigh issue, while Almugera Kabar and Ramy Bensebaini were rested after a minor collision in a previous session.