Nico Kovac Criticises Extended International Break as Kobel Signals Long-Term Borussia Dortmund Commitment

• Niko Kovac said Borussia Dortmund will assess Julian Ryerson and Nico Schlotterbeck before Friday’s game against Werder Bremen
• Carney Chukwuemeka returned from his stay with the Austrian national team with muscular issues
• Gregor Kobel can imagine remaining at Borussia Dortmund beyond 2028, with contract talks expected before Christmas

Kovac Unhappy With International Break Changes

Borussia Dortmund head coach Niko Kovac has criticised the revised international break structure while preparing his side for Friday’s meeting with Werder Bremen.

Kovac made clear that he is dissatisfied with the new format, arguing that the expanded schedule has disrupted Dortmund’s momentum.

“It’s clear that this break, or these four games, are definitely too many. That has to be said quite clearly.

“As a former national coach, I naturally understand the urgency to score points and be successful, but I preferred the old system,” he added.

The Dortmund coach stressed that the team have lost their rhythm under the new schedule and said the previous arrangement was more suitable.

🇭🇷 Niko Kovač has criticised the current international break, calling it “completely unacceptable” from a club perspective.

The Borussia Dortmund coach says his team has gone two and a half weeks without a proper training and match rhythm, while four consecutive international matches are “definitely too much.”

— Croatian Football  (@CroatiaFooty) October 8, 2026

Selection Concerns Before Werder Bremen Fixture

Dortmund also have fitness concerns to manage ahead of the Bremen game. Julian Ryerson, Nico Schlotterbeck and Carney Chukwuemeka are all doubts.

Kovac said Dortmund will wait to see whether Ryerson and Schlotterbeck are able to make the matchday squad. Chukwuemeka, meanwhile, has come back from his stay with the Austrian national team with muscular issues.

Kobel Open to Extending Dortmund Stay

Alongside Kovac’s concerns about scheduling and team rhythm, Dortmund are expected to begin contract discussions with Gregor Kobel, who can picture himself staying with the club beyond 2028.

Speaking to Sport BILD, he said: “I’m absolutely delighted at BVB; I really enjoy playing for this club and in front of these fans. Of course, I can certainly see myself playing here for a long time to come.”

Kobel is regarded as one of Borussia Dortmund’s key players and has also expressed satisfaction with the leadership provided by Kovac.

“ Kovac has brought a clear structure and culture here, which forms the basis of our success. In a team, there are many different cultures and languages. You have to find common ground and a shared path. And Niko has certainly ensured that,” he added.

Contract and Premier League Interest

Kobel was the subject of interest from Premier League clubs in the summer. He joined BVB from Stuttgart in 2021 for €15m and has since established himself as an important member of the squad.

The goalkeeper signed his current contract in 2023, and Dortmund are expected to further extend his stay at the Black and Yellows before Christmas.