“The others are simply better” – Kovac explains decision to leave Duranville out of his squad

Borussia Dortmund coach Niko Kovac has explained why Julian Duranville was not in his squad for Sunday’s win over Hoffenheim.

19-year-old winger Julien Duranville has yet to make an appearance for Borussia Dortmund this season and was left out of the squad entirely for the club’s last two games.

Speaking about the youngster’s situation after Dortmund’s 2-0 win over Hoffenheim, head coach Niko Kovac acknowledged his talent, but made it clear that others are ahead of him in the pecking order.

“It’s difficult for him to be involved,” said Kovac. 

“We are at BVB – there are really good players here, and he is one of them. But the others are simply better.”

Dortmund paid a reported €8.5 million fee to sign Duranville from Anderlecht in January 2023. 

Since then, he has racked up a goal and an assist in 27 appearances across all competitions.