Borussia Dortmund executives traveled to Salzburg on Monday to meet Ralf Rangnick, the Austrian national team coach, and discuss whether he would take over as head coach right away or wait until summer.
Club officials, including Hans-Joachim Watzke and Lars Ricken, reportedly tried to persuade him to accept a short-term role to stabilize the season. Yet it appears he’s leaning toward declining the immediate offer.
Rangnick’s reputation for revamping systems and his background at Schalke, RB Leipzig, and Manchester United make him a notable choice. His existing Austria contract runs until 2025, with an automatic extension if his team qualifies for the 2026 World Cup.
Sky Sports Patrick Berger noted that “Rangnick’s signature will be difficult to secure, as he’s the current coach of the Austria National team.” Some fans view his past ties with Schalke as a potential source of tension, but many believe his tactical vision aligns well with Dortmund’s high-intensity style.
A delicate negotiation
Dortmund has also explored Niko Kovac, who reportedly wants a contract lasting at least until 2026. Dortmund, on the other hand, prefers a shorter arrangement. In the meantime, Mike Tullberg, the U19 coach, is filling in on an interim basis.
While the club’s leadership debates stopgap solutions versus a long-term fix, supporters wonder if Rangnick can unify a squad still reeling from recent disappointments. Some recall his direct style at Manchester United, when he famously said the club needed “open heart surgery.” Others point to his success with Austria, citing energetic and pressing-based performances as evidence of his effectiveness.
For now, Dortmund’s quest for a permanent leader continues. Although the meeting in Salzburg did not produce an immediate agreement, Rangnick remains among the preferred targets for summer. Fans must wait to see whether he chooses club-level challenges over international ambitions.
