Dortmund Management Looks Ahead: Schalke’s Return and Plans for 2026/27

Borussia Dortmund’s leadership is already setting their sights on the 2026/27 Bundesliga season, with the imminent return of fierce rivals Schalke 04 to the top flight a significant talking point. Managing director for sport Lars Ricken and sporting director Ole Book have outlined the club’s perspective on Schalke’s promotion and their own strategic plans for squad development.

Schalke’s Bundesliga Comeback

The 2025/26 season may have just concluded, but the significance of Schalke’s promotion back to the Bundesliga is not lost on Dortmund. After three years in the second division, the Royal Blues secured their return as champions, reigniting the historic Revierderby. Ricken acknowledged the importance of this development, stating, “It’s very good for the Bundesliga that Schalke are back.” He anticipates that the derbies will be eagerly awaited, adding a new dimension to the league calendar.

Reflecting on the 2025/26 Season

Despite finishing as runners-up to Bayern Munich, Dortmund achieved an impressive 73 points in the 2025/26 campaign, their fifth-best Bundesliga season historically. However, the club’s internal standards mean this strong performance is viewed as a platform to build upon rather than a point of ultimate satisfaction. The intensified competition, particularly with Schalke’s return, underscores the need for continuous improvement.

Squad Strengthening Strategy

With the departures of key players like Julian Brandt, Niklas Süle, and Salih Özcan at the end of the last season, Dortmund are actively exploring avenues to strengthen their squad for the upcoming term. Sporting director Ole Book indicated that the focus will be on enhancing the team’s offensive capabilities rather than reinforcing the defense.

“We conceded the fewest goals last season. We are physically very strong, and strong on set pieces. Those are qualities we absolutely want to maintain,” Book explained. “If we can add even more creativity and offensive punch next season, we can become even stronger. That’s why we want to reinforce the attack.” He emphasized that the club intends to largely maintain its current system, which has proven successful and suits the existing defensive unit.

Felix Nmecha’s Importance

Book also stressed the crucial role of midfielder Felix Nmecha in Dortmund’s future plans. Despite attracting interest from other European clubs, the Germany international is considered indispensable. “Felix will play for us next season – that’s the clear plan. He’s one of the best midfielders in Germany and doesn’t need to hide on the European stage. He’s hugely important to our game,” Book stated.

Balancing Experience and Youth

Dortmund’s recruitment philosophy for the upcoming season will aim for a balanced approach, integrating established players with emerging talents. Ricken cautioned against a “rejuvenation frenzy,” highlighting the value of experienced leaders in guiding the team. “The experienced leaders carry the team through competitions. Young players can learn from them and grow,” he commented.

The club is placing increased emphasis on developing young players, building on the emergence of talents like Samuele Inácio and Luca Reggiani in the latter stages of the 2025/26 season. Book views the close season as an opportunity to foster both immediate success and long-term sustainability through a mix of experienced players and ambitious youngsters.

Datos clave
Borussia Dortmund’s 2025/26 Bundesliga finish: Second place
Points achieved: 73
Key departures: Julian Brandt, Niklas Süle, Salih Özcan
Strategic focus for 2026/27: Strengthening attack and creativity
Key player for next season: Felix Nmecha

This development is significant for FootballGames10 readers as it provides an inside look into the strategic thinking of a major Bundesliga club. Understanding Dortmund’s transfer targets and their philosophy on player development offers valuable context for the upcoming season and potential future team dynamics. The return of the Revierderby also adds an exciting narrative element to the league.

Fuente: Bundesliga – https://www.bundesliga.com/en/bundesliga/news/borussia-dortmund-welcome-schalke-promotion-revierderby-nmecha-transfers-37612

Datos clave