Niko Kovač gives Borussia Dortmund players a reality check | OneFootball

Following Borussia Dortmund’s latest setback last weekend, head coach Niko Kovač has given his players a stark reality check and dressing down, reports Sky Germany.

With the agreement of sports director Sebastian Kehl and managing director Lars Ricken, a meeting was scheduled on Sunday with Kovač and the players.

The conversation lasted around 30 minutes, with Kovač reportedly raising his voice as he expressed his true feelings with the squad.

Kovač explained that the time for excuses was now over. Instead, players must look in the mirror and admit what roles they have played to add to the current misery at the club. In addition, the coach confirmed that it’s likely that personal consequences will follow.

Lack of Team Cohesion

One thing that has been notable with BVB this season is the squad’s lack of connection and cohesion on the pitch. This also appears to be the case off it.

Kovač has advocated for a team bonding evening with all squad members in attendance.

A team evening has not occurred this season. In fact, the last team bonding evening took place last summer during pre-season preparations.

Emre Can does hold small coffee meetings, but these are optional. At the last meeting, there were only five players in attendance.

It’s common for teams at all levels to have team nights out throughout the season to make sure there is a strong team unit throughout. The fact this hasn’t happened all season at Dortmund is telling.

First Reaction This Week

Kovač will be hoping for an instant reaction this week when they go to Lille for their last 16 second leg tie in the Champions League. Regardless, the coach will be expected to oversee a big squad shift this summer with plenty of comings and goings.

GGFN | Jamie Allen