Hans-Joachim Watzke announces profound changes at Borussia Dortmund
Dortmund – In his New Year’s address for 2025, Hans-Joachim Watzke, CEO of Borussia Dortmund, prepared the fans and members of the club for a comprehensive change. In front of the assembled audience and via live stream, Watzke explained that in view of the challenges of recent years, the club would initiate profound changes in order to secure the sporting and economic future in the long term.
“Borussia Dortmund is more than a club, we are an institution. But in order to live up to our claim to be competitive both nationally and internationally, we must continue to develop,” said Watzke.
He announced a realignment in several areas. Central points are the optimization of youth development, a modernized transfer strategy and a closer integration of sport and management. The aim is to reduce the gap to the financially superior clubs without endangering the identity of the club.
Watzke placed particular emphasis on the sporting area: “We have great talent in our squad, but we have to offer them the best possible conditions to fully exploit their potential. At the same time, we will be expanding our scouting and investing more specifically.”
Watzke also addressed the fans and promised to include their voices more in decision-making processes. “Without you, this club would not be what it is. Your passion and support drive us.”
The reactions to Watzke’s speech were mixed. While some fans welcomed the announced changes, others expressed skepticism about previous promises. The success of the measures will have to be seen in the coming months – on and off the pitch.
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