by Oliver Trust
BERLIN, Oct. 22 (Xinhua) -- Once seen as a troublemaker, coach Niko Kovac has engineered a remarkable turnaround for Borussia Dortmund, transforming the team into a top contender in the UEFA Champions League.
Twelve goals in three unbeaten matches, including a recent 4-2 victory in Copenhagen, demonstrate the potential of a team that has found its way back to success.
Despite a roster of talented and experienced players, Dortmund's progress was previously hampered by a lack of structure. Months of stabilization work have now laid the foundation for the next level.
Supported by a resilient defense and an attentive midfield, Kovac emphasizes the club's core philosophy: "Being dedicated to offensive, forward-thinking football."
Previously inconsistent players such as German internationals Felix Nmecha and Karim Adeyemi, and England newcomers Jobe Bellingham and Carney Chukwuemeka, now meet Kovac's requirements by contributing defensively.
According to the 54-year-old coach, this discipline allows the more offensive-minded players to develop their attacking skills without compromising the team's overall stability.
The decision to start Jobe Bellingham—brother of Real Madrid midfielder Jude Bellingham—and play him for full matches reflects Kovac's effort to foster a positive environment for his young talents.
The coach faced scrutiny for several weeks after emotional debates with the Bellingham family. "I told him he has the quality to start, and I entirely trust his skills," Kovac said.
Weeks earlier, Bellingham's father had appeared in the locker room demanding more playing time for his son and criticizing what he saw as an unjustified reduction in his role. The club stood firm, emphasizing respect for Kovac's authority.
Given the tight match schedule, Kovac noted that rotation is inevitable.
The sports magazine Kicker praised Dortmund's offensive potential after the Copenhagen victory, highlighting the improvement of Bellingham alongside the progress of Adeyemi, Chukwuemeka and Nmecha.
"I understand the youngsters' impatience. But we must act smart in dealing with them. It's important to understand that the team comes first and it's always a team effort," the Dortmund manager said.
Bellingham and Nmecha delivered a brilliant display—an assist and two goals—rewarding their coach's trust. Kovac praised England's under-21 captain after Dortmund's 200th Champions League game, emphasizing Nmecha's value to both the club and the German national team.
Dortmund's young stars expressed their enjoyment of the new collaborative style and their appreciation for the coach's confidence.
With an upcoming clash against Manchester City, the 2024 Champions League finalists have positioned themselves promisingly in this season's campaign, sparking hopes of a quarterfinal berth.
Kovac credited the team's recent achievements to his young players but reaffirmed that offensive freedom must be balanced with teamwork and discipline. ■
