Lars Ricken, sporting director, once again denied the existence of internal disharmony in the management team at Borussia Dortmund. “There was no fuss anywhere,” the 48-year-old said on ZDF’s “Sportstudio” program when asked about the alleged disagreements between coach Nuri Sahin, team planner Sven Mislintat and sporting director Sebastian Kehl. When it came to sports matters and team composition, Ricken pointed to “good teamwork where everyone was able to give their input.”
Over the summer, rumors circulated that Mislintat, who reported to Kehl as technical director, wanted more say and power. “Sven is a very difficult character, but that helps us all move forward,” Rieken said of the 51-year-old, who returns to Dortmund after spells at Arsenal, Stuttgart and Ajax Amsterdam.
According to Rekin, the responsibility for Dortmund’s scouting department that Mislintat allegedly wanted should remain with sporting director Kehl. BVB’s managing director said he has now begun discussions with the 44-year-old about expanding the collaboration. Before Riken’s promotion, Kell was also considered a potential candidate for the top job.
