by Oliver Trust
BERLIN, March 1 (Xinhua) -- Behind the scenes of Borussia Dortmund's training ground in the north of the city, tensions rise and rumors grow about the team's coach Edin Terzic in danger of losing his job.
While the Black and Yellows' gap to table leaders Leverkusen has grown to 20 points, its qualification for the 2024-25 UEFA Champions League campaign is at stake due to recent setbacks.
Champions League qualification is reportedly a red line for the club's leaders.
It doesn't seem breaking news for Terzic, as the 41-year-old is unwrapping his fighting heart and demanding to stay away from panic.
However, the current turmoil doesn't exclude Terzic, who had been a Borussia fan since his early years.
At present, his daily routines have changed, for self-protecting reasons.
The coach's breakfast takes place with the usual glance at newspapers and social media. Several media talk about an ultimatum expressed by the club, with the sports magazine Kicker reporting that the upcoming two and a half weeks will decide about the BVB manager's future.
Others mention the current German national coach Julian Nagelsmann as a sense-making target of the BVB after the 2024 UEFA Euro.
"We spoiled 13 points in games, we lost faith after halftime, that's why we don't compete for higher goals but are where we are," the Dortmund coach said.
Terzic complained about inexplicable blackouts and difficulties in setting up a convincing attacking game approach.
"It's in our hands," the coach said while mentioning his conviction, "We will make it."
The optimism appears like the famous whistling in the dark as Germany's record international and TV pundit Lothar Matthaus talks about a team having lost its balance.
The former Bayern captain said a complete squad reconstruction in summer is inevitable as icons such as Mats Hummels and Marco Reus have reached their limits.
Having gambled away the league title in last season's last game remains a burden, he added.
As for Terzic, who is currently avoiding newspapers, future plan doesn't help, as the here and now seems challenging enough. ■
