In a significant move that stabilizes its front office, Borussia Dortmund has extended sporting director Sebastian Kehl's contract until 2027, ending weeks of speculation about the club legend's future. The 44-year-old executive, who has managed sporting operations since 2022, was approaching the end of his current deal this summer.
The extension arrives during a period of substantial organizational upheaval at the German giants. CEO Hans-Joachim Watzke is scheduled to step down in summer 2025, while Lars Ricken recently assumed a newly-created sporting managing director position in May 2024.
The negotiations weren't without drama. Kehl had previously sought the sporting managing director role that ultimately went to Ricken. Speaking to Sky Deutschland, Kehl admitted feeling "a little disappointed" about missing out on the promotion but stressed his "long-term and trusting" relationship with Ricken.
Further complicating matters was the return of former chief scout Sven Mislintat as technical director. The pair's historically tense relationship added another layer of complexity to the extension process.
Kehl's ties to Dortmund run deep. The former captain made over 350 appearances for the club before transitioning to the front office, cementing his status as a club legend. Despite recent leadership uncertainties, the club consistently emphasized retaining Kehl as a priority, with Ricken reinforcing this position at November's Annual General Meeting.
The timing is crucial as Dortmund faces on-field challenges under new coach Nuri Sahin. The team currently occupies sixth place after 15 games, trailing Bundesliga leaders Bayern Munich by 11 points and battling for Champions League qualification.
"I am extremely committed to Borussia Dortmund and am delighted to be able to continue working for this great club," Kehl stated upon signing. "I feel the trust our management has in me as sporting director."
Ricken outlined the club's vision: "Our primary goal is clear: We want to be continuously represented in the Champions League in the coming years and play the necessary role in the Bundesliga. In order to achieve these goals, we will continue to join forces. As sporting director, Sebastian has my full support on this path."
The extension provides crucial stability to Dortmund's recruitment strategy and executive structure as they aim to reclaim their position among German football's elite.
