First impressions, motivational skills and philosophy: Niko Kovac presented as Borussia Dortmund’s head coach | OneFootball

Borussia Dortmund presented Niko Kovac to the media on Tuesday afternoon. The 53-year-old has been in charge since Sunday having signed an 18-month deal until June 2026, succeeding Nuri Sain as the club’s head coach.

GGFN covered the main talking points of his press conference, which was also attended by Sebastian Kehl and Lars Ricken.

Kovac on his first impressions: “We used the last two days to get to know everyone and see how things work. My first impression is very positive. I’m really happy that we can be here. We’re very well recovered and motivated after a 10-month break. We’re happy that we can work in the Bundesliga again at a very big club like Borussia Dortmund.”

Kovac on his first impressions of the team: “You can see that the team has the necessary quality. Of course, a lot depends on self-confidence. We had a short phase that wasn’t good but the last three games that Mike Tullberg coached were great. The boys saw how nice it is to win. Winning tackles and successful passes, that’s what you need as a footballer. Today the boys often had smiles on their faces. It wasn’t just because of the nice weather.”

Kovac on his personality: “I’m a hard worker, because where I come from and how I was brought up, things didn’t happen by themselves. I think that’s why I fit in quite well here. For those who are happy with little, everything I do is too much. But for those who have enough physicality and resilience, it’s manageable.”

Kovac on his goals this season: “The league will be decided very late, it will last until the final matchday. We all have to be patient. We want to work hard. We are positive and that’s why I’m here.”

Kovac on his philosophy: “I demand dedication and passion from everyone on the pitch. We set that in the first training session. That’s what Borussia Dortmund stands for. We want to play attractive, good attacking football. I hope that we can implement that in the short time.”

Kovac on Borussia Dortmund: “You can compare Borussia Dortmund with Eintracht Frankfurt in terms of fan potential, impact and power. In sporting terms, Borussia Dortmund is on the same level as Bayern Munich. I expect a club with heart, soul, passion and intensity.”

Kovac on his motivational skills: “This stadium, these fans and this region demand hard work first and foremost. If you get the crowd on your side through tackles, intensity and aggression, I’m convinced that the players will show their quality. A lot is decided in the head. When your head is clear, you can go beyond your limits as a player.”

GGFN | Daniel Pinder