´Is attractiveness more important than success?´ – Kovac hits back at Dortmund critics

Niko Kovac claimed Borussia Dortmund do not have to play attractive football in every game as long as they are successful, responding to criticism that their points tally does not match his style.

Not since 2018-19 have Dortmund had more points at this stage of a Bundesliga season than their current tally of 67, but questions have been asked about the side’s style.

Dortmund have suffered just four defeats all season, with only champions Bayern Munich bettering their 65 goals, but Kovac’s critics have claimed they are not easy on the eye.

However, ahead of facing Borussia Monchengladbach on Sunday, Kovac highlighted the need to find the right balance between style and substance.

“Of course, the expectations at Borussia Dortmund are significantly higher than at the other 16 Bundesliga clubs,” Kovac told the FAZ.

“I ask you: who, apart from Bayern Munich, consistently plays attractive football in the Bundesliga? And is attractiveness more important than success?

“You have to realise that the Bundesliga isn’t a theatre stage where every performance goes the same way; a lot of it is unpredictable.

“Hardly any club offers its fans four goals and an attacking spectacle every week. I think we’ve certainly put on some very good and entertaining matches this season.”

Gladbach are towards the bottom of the Bundesliga but still have a six-point buffer over the relegation play-off place, despite failing to win any of their last six games.

Their struggles could play into Dortmund’s hands, with Kovac aiming to scoop up maximum points from their remaining three matches.

“I believe my team can reach 72 points – that would have made Borussia Dortmund German champions in 2023,” he added.

“Unfortunately, it won’t be enough this time.”

Gladbach, Frankfurt und Bremen – rein in den