Key Takeaways:
- Jobe Bellingham has seen limited playing time at Borussia Dortmund despite a promising pre-season and a debut goal at the Club World Cup
- Niko Kovac has asked for patience from supporters, emphasising that Bellingham’s role is still evolving within the team and cautioning against adding external pressure
- BVB will face Wolfsburg on September 21, with scrutiny intensifying around Bellingham’s involvement following a family-related incident during the recent St. Pauli match
Early Assessments of Bellingham’s Integration
Jobe Bellingham has encountered challenges in securing a regular spot at Borussia Dortmund since making his move from the English second division, in spite of a strong pre-season and recording his first goal during his Club World Cup debut. Coach Niko Kovac has so far used Bellingham sparingly, with the 19-year-old struggling for consistent appearances amid fierce competition in the squad.
Niko Kovac:
"The number 6 position is the position Jobe Bellingham will hold in the long term. We can't expect a player to be familiar with all the procedures after just two months, some young players need up to six months."#BVB pic.twitter.com/OHnTXkHi1D
— BVB Newsblog (@bvbnewsblog) September 19, 2025
Kovac Preaches Patience as Expectations Build
Niko Kovac has appealed for patience from both fans and media, underscoring that Bellingham’s position at the club remains a work in progress. Kovac detailed his developmental approach, explaining the reasoning behind Bellingham’s deployment during the Club World Cup and indicating the midfielder is viewed as a potential long-term option in the number six role. He cautioned against placing undue expectations on Bellingham, especially due to his surname, stating:
“We let him play there at the Club World Cup because we wanted to see how he would adapt. But I do think the number six role is where we see him long-term. I don’t want to make comparisons, but he has a lot of potential. But that has to develop first, it’s a process. You can’t make the mistake of putting too much pressure on him because of his name. That’s not doing the boy any favours.”
Kovac further commented on Bellingham’s progression and the natural challenge of moving from English football to the Bundesliga:
“Jobe is a very talented young player who comes from the English second division and has to grow into his new role here. We know exactly what we expect from him and what the future holds. The jump from the English second division to the Bundesliga – that’s a natural fit. He’s getting good minutes and has played in every game. Everyone wants to play more. I’m happy with his development. When you sign a contract here, you know there’s a lot of competition.”
Recent Incidents Intensify the Spotlight
Bellingham was introduced as a substitute in the 71st minute during the Champions League fixture against Juventus, replacing Felix Nmecha. This marked his second straight substitute appearance for Dortmund, prompting further discussion about Kovac’s trust in the young midfielder. In the match against St. Pauli, Bellingham was withdrawn at half-time during Dortmund’s 3-3 draw, leading to a tense encounter between his parents and sporting director Sebastian Kehl in the tunnel. Consequently, the club issued a strong reminder regarding family members’ access to restricted areas, stressing that similar incidents should not occur again.
Wolfsburg Encounter to Test Response
The upcoming league fixture against Wolfsburg on September 21 brings additional scrutiny to Bellingham’s role. Media and supporters alike will be watching closely to see if the midfielder is granted greater involvement or continues in a substitute role, as his early period at Borussia Dortmund enters a critical phase.
