Borussia Dortmund officials have moved to clarify a reported heated exchange between sporting director Sebastian Kehl and Mark Bellingham, father of new signing Jobe Bellingham, following Dortmund’s unexpected 3-3 draw against St. Pauli on Saturday. The incident occurred after a match that saw Dortmund relinquish a 3-1 lead in the closing minutes, marking a disappointing start to their Bundesliga campaign.
Dortmund had previously held the record for the longest streak of opening-day Bundesliga victories, with ten consecutive wins. However, that run came to an abrupt end at the Millerntor-Stadion, thanks to a late surge from St. Pauli. A penalty converted by Danel Sinani, coupled with a red card for Dortmund defender Filippo Mane, shifted the momentum, and Eric Smith’s 89th-minute equalizer completed the comeback for the home side.
Jobe Bellingham, making his Bundesliga debut, was substituted at halftime, replaced by Felix Nmecha. Reports quickly surfaced suggesting that his father, Mark Bellingham – also the father of Real Madrid midfielder Jude Bellingham who previously starred for Dortmund – had confronted Kehl in the aftermath of the match and was subsequently barred from the dressing room area.
However, Borussia Dortmund managing director Lars Ricken has downplayed the severity of the situation, describing the conversation as “emotional” but emphasizing that it stemmed from a long-standing relationship of trust. Ricken explained that the Bellingham family had traveled specifically to witness Jobe’s first Bundesliga appearance and were eager to connect with their son after the game.
“We were able to sign Jobe Bellingham because we have built a relationship of trust with the parents over the years,” Ricken stated to Sky Sports DE. “The family flew in especially for their son’s first Bundesliga game and wanted to meet Jobe after the game. They stood in the hallway to the locker room and had an emotional conversation with Sebastian, which is not a problem at all, given this relationship.”
Ricken acknowledged that the club will implement stricter access controls to the dressing room area in the future to avoid similar situations and potential misinterpretations. “In the future, though, we will ensure that only players, coaches and officials have access to the locker room area, so that we no longer get into trouble by commenting on such news. Everything has been resolved, there is no drama.”
The incident highlights the intense emotions surrounding high-stakes football matches and the passion of families invested in their children’s careers. While the exchange was described as “emotional,” Ricken’s comments suggest it was a result of frustration following a disappointing result rather than a serious dispute. The club’s swift response and clarification aim to quell any speculation and maintain a positive relationship with the Bellingham family.
Jude Bellingham’s successful three-year stint with Dortmund undoubtedly played a role in the club’s ability to attract his younger brother, Jobe. The family’s familiarity with the club and its environment likely contributed to their willingness to return, despite the initial post-match tension. Dortmund will be hoping that Jobe can replicate some of his brother’s success and become a key player for the club in the years to come.
The focus now shifts back to on-field performance as Dortmund seeks to regain their winning momentum in the Bundesliga. The draw against St. Pauli served as a wake-up call, and the team will need to demonstrate resilience and determination in their upcoming fixtures. The club will also be keen to ensure a harmonious environment both on and off the pitch, fostering strong relationships with players and their families.
