After two decades of service at Borussia Dortmund, Hans-Joachim Watzke is set to conclude his tenure at the club in 2025, at the age of 64. In preparation for his departure, Watzke is initiating a restructuring effort within the organization. Although specifics regarding his potential successor remain undisclosed, it is anticipated that there may be a change in leadership at the managerial level to guide Die Schwarzgelben into a new chapter.
According to a report by Sky Germany, the imminent transformations at Dortmund imply a degree of uncertainty surrounding the continuity of Edin Terzić’s role beyond the current season. Despite receiving backing from Watzke, Terzić’s future with BvB hinges significantly on the club’s qualification for the UEFA Champions League. Failure to secure this objective would likely prompt managerial changes.
Even in the event of Champions League qualification, Dortmund faces a conundrum. Julian Nagelsmann, the current head coach of the German national team, is poised to make a decision regarding his career path before the commencement of the European Championships in June. Nagelsmann commands respect within the confines of Westfalenstadion, having been previously sought after by Dortmund on two occasions. Watzke, who played a pivotal role in enticing Nagelsmann to the German Football Association (DFB), holds him in high esteem.
Despite mutual admiration, formal discussions between Nagelsmann and Dortmund are yet to occur. Additionally, Nagelsmann is contemplating opportunities abroad, leaving Dortmund to explore alternative options. It is understood that Nuri Şahin, currently serving as Terzić’s assistant, could be considered for a more prominent role within the coaching staff.
Nevertheless, Terzić’s position remains precarious, with Dortmund’s aspirations for sustained competitiveness against Bayern Munich underscoring Nagelsmann as the preferred candidate for the managerial position.