BVB sporting director targets aggressive offensive shift in new season

Borussia Dortmund sporting director Lars Ricken has outlined the club’s strategic objectives for the upcoming season, signalling a decisive shift from the stabilisation phase of last year to a more aggressive offensive posture. Speaking ahead of the preseason campaign, Ricken emphasised that while the club intends to maintain the defensive solidity it has cultivated over the past decade, the primary tactical evolution lies in becoming a more assertive contender in attack.

The club is preparing for a rigorous preseason schedule that includes fixtures against Arsenal, AS Roma, and Bayern Munich, alongside a Super Cup match. Ricken noted that facing three Champions League teams in this period provides a critical opportunity to lay the groundwork for the season. He acknowledged the progress made under coach Niko Kovac in the previous campaign, which focused on improving team fitness and reducing injury issues after a season where the club chased a Champions League spot.

Ricken highlighted the immediate integration of recent signings, specifically Joane Gadou, Kaua Prates, and Justin Lerma. He noted that the club had not necessarily expected these players to contribute at such a high level so quickly, but their current form suggests a successful early adaptation. The sporting director also pointed to players signed the previous year, including Carney Chukwuemeka, Fabio Silva, and Jobe Bellingham, as being poised to take the next step in their development within the established squad structure.

A key component of Ricken’s strategy is the balance between youth and experience. He identified Nico Schlotterbeck, Waldemar Anton, Felix Nmecha, Julian Ryerson, and Marcel Sabitzer as vital leaders within the current roster. These experienced players are viewed as essential for mentoring the younger core, allowing them to grow without bearing the full weight of responsibility. This approach underpins the club’s transfer policy, which prioritises quality and leadership over age when making further acquisitions.

Looking ahead to the close of the transfer window, Ricken stated the club aims to secure one to three additional high-quality signings. He stressed that these moves would be made with long-term squad strength in mind rather than for short-term applause. Meanwhile, the return of Nico Schlotterbeck remains a focal point, with Ricken confirming that the defender requires several more weeks to fully recover from injury, though his early return to training has demonstrated significant motivation.