Niko Kovac has extended his contract with Borussia Dortmund, committing to the club until June 2027. This follows a successful turnaround last season, securing Champions League football after a dismal start. Kovac boasts a 61% win rate and aims to build long-term success. Dortmund has also signed Carney Chukwuemeka permanently from Chelsea and is set to loan Aaron Anselmino. The club is poised for a strong season under Kovac’s leadership.
Borussia Dortmund fans have reason to celebrate as head coach Niko Kovac has inked a contract extension, securing his leadership at the Signal Iduna Park for the next two years. The announcement comes after Kovac's transformative impact on the team, turning their fortunes around after a challenging start to the previous season.
When Kovac arrived in January, replacing Nuri Sahin, Dortmund was languishing in 11th place, a far cry from their usual top-four aspirations. However, the Croatian manager orchestrated a remarkable resurgence. Under his guidance, Dortmund clinched a Champions League spot, a feat achieved by winning an impressive 22 out of a possible 24 points in their final eight Bundesliga matches. This stellar performance, which included seven wins and one draw, was unmatched by any other team in the league.
The team's momentum continued as they wrapped up the campaign with five consecutive victories, their longest winning streak since 2023. This impressive run solidified Kovac's position and paved the way for his contract extension, which will keep him at the helm until June 2027.
Kovac's record at Dortmund speaks for itself. In his 41 games in charge, he boasts a remarkable 61% win rate, having secured 25 victories, 6 draws, and only 10 losses. While their recent Bundesliga opener against St. Pauli ended in a 3-3 draw, the overall trajectory under Kovac is undeniably positive. The draw against St. Pauli highlighted areas for improvement, but the team's fighting spirit and attacking prowess were evident.
"We have made a lot of progress together in the last six months to get Borussia Dortmund back on track on the pitch," Kovac stated, expressing his satisfaction with the team's development. He further emphasized the strong sense of mutual trust between the coaching staff and the club, adding, "We sense that there’s a high level of trust in us as coaches, and we feel that we can achieve something special here together with the club and the fans."
Kovac's vision extends beyond short-term success. "The conversations we have had over the last few weeks have reinforced my conviction that, building on our achievements so far, we can deliver long-term success at this club," he affirmed, highlighting his commitment to building a sustainable winning culture at Dortmund. He is convinced that with hard work, clear-sighted decisions, and a shared passion for the game, Dortmund can reclaim its former glory.
Commitment confirmed.
Borussia Dortmund head coach Niko Kovač has committed his future to the club by extending his contract until June 30, 2027. pic.twitter.com/OjPGVnROcw
— Borussia Dortmund (@BlackYellow) August 26, 2025
In addition to the contract extension, Dortmund has also secured the services of Carney Chukwuemeka on a permanent transfer from Chelsea. The 21-year-old midfielder, who impressed during his loan spell in the second half of the 2024-25 season, has signed a five-year contract with the club. The deal is reportedly valued at around £24 million, signaling Dortmund's commitment to investing in young talent.
Chukwuemeka made 13 appearances for Dortmund during his loan spell, showcasing his creative abilities and contributing to the team's attacking play. While he scored only one goal, he created nine chances and accumulated 2.2 expected assists (xA), demonstrating his potential to become a key player for the club. His vision and passing range will add another dimension to Dortmund's midfield.
Adding to their defensive options, Chelsea defender Aaron Anselmino is reportedly set to join Dortmund on a season-long loan. This move would provide Dortmund with valuable cover in defense and give Anselmino the opportunity to gain valuable first-team experience in a competitive league.
With Kovac at the helm and promising new signings bolstering the squad, Borussia Dortmund is poised for a strong season. The combination of tactical expertise, player development, and strategic recruitment has created a sense of optimism among fans and players alike. The goal is clear: to challenge for titles and re-establish Dortmund as a dominant force in German and European football.
The contract extension of Niko Kovac is not just a continuation of a professional relationship; it is a statement of intent. It signals Dortmund's belief in Kovac's ability to lead the team to new heights and achieve long-term success. The journey will undoubtedly be challenging, but with Kovac's leadership, the talent within the squad, and the unwavering support of the fans, Borussia Dortmund is well-equipped to achieve something truly special.