Borussia Dortmund’s head coach, Niko Kovac, expressed satisfaction with the team’s progress after a six-day training camp in Saalfelden, Austria, ahead of the 2025/26 season.
Borussia Dortmund’s head coach, Niko Kovac, has given a positive assessment of his team’s progress after concluding a six-day training camp in Saalfelden, Austria. The camp, which included a final open training session attended by 1,800 enthusiastic fans, saw the team work on their physical intensity and tactical versatility.
Kovac praised the squad’s attitude and work ethic, highlighting the demanding sessions, particularly on Tuesday. “Even today, despite it being an open session, we still worked physically,” he said. The coach acknowledged that while the team 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,” Kovac added.
With the DFB-Pokal opener against Rot-Weiss Essen set for August 18, followed by Bundesliga clashes against St. Pauli and Union Berlin, Kovac knows time is short to finalize his starting XI.
However, he’s confident that the team will fine-tune during the early part of the campaign. “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 said.
The competition for starting positions is fierce, and Kovac views this as a positive force. “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,” he said. The players have understood that every training session counts, and they’re fighting for their spot.
Kovac also provided updates on the team’s injuries. Nico Schlotterbeck is making progress, working hard in the gym and gradually returning to on-field training, although still avoiding physical contact. Emre Can is improving but won’t be rushed back. “I want Emre fully fit and healthy,” Kovac emphasized.
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. Despite these setbacks, Kovac remains optimistic about the team’s prospects.
