Ricken brushes off criticism of Dortmund's playing style under Kovac

Lars Ricken has defended Borussia Dortmund’s pragmatic tactical approach under Niko Kovac.

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After guiding Borussia Dortmund to consecutive Champions League qualifications, Niko Kovac has led the Black and Yellows to the top of the Bundesliga after four games of the 2026/27 season.

Despite the results being difficult to argue with, Kovac has faced consistent criticism over his relatively defensive playing style, with some fans nostalgically longing for the days of Jürgen Klopp’s “heavy metal” football and its energetic, high-pressing approach.

Borussia Dortmund managing director for sport Lars Ricken, however, does not appear particularly concerned by the style of play, emphasising that results come first.

“Of course, we want to play attractive and attacking football. At the same time, however, we will not give up our great strength in defence simply because, for example, we feel that a back four might occasionally help us more in attacking situations,” Ricken told Kicker, acknowledging that “there is an emotional attachment to attacking football here in Dortmund.”

Over the course of a long season, BVB need every point they can get – even if those victories come in unspectacular fashion, Ricken points out.

“With more than 50 games per season, scrappy wins are just as important – and they bring exactly the same number of points,” he said.

Dortmund will be looking to make it five wins from five in the Bundesliga on Friday when they host Werder Bremen.