Sporting director Sebastian Kehl leaves Borussia Dortmund with immediate effect
Sebastian Kehl has departed his role as Borussia Dortmund sporting director with immediate effect, the club have confirmed.
The decision comes following Dortmund's 3-2 comeback victory over Hamburg on Matchday 27, a result that keeps them within nine points of Bundesliga leaders Bayern Munich.
Upon the announcement, managing director Lars Ricken said, "In a very open discussion, Sebastian Kehl, Carsten Cramer, and I came to the shared conclusion that the summer is the right time for changes. To allow both sides to prepare, we mutually agreed to an immediate termination of Sebastian's contract.
"Sebastian and I also share a long history. We not only played together for Borussia Dortmund, but also won the German championship together in 2002. Sebastian has made an enormous contribution to our club, and we are very grateful for his great commitment."
Kehl said: "Borussia Dortmund has been a part of my life for half my life, and I have an extremely strong connection to this great club. Nevertheless, we have now jointly come to the conclusion that it's time to move forward – both for BVB and for me. Lars, Carsten, and I reached this decision today after a constructive discussion. I owe Borussia Dortmund a great deal and am proud to have been part of the BVB family for around 24 years.
"During this time, I was able to celebrate so many incredible successes with the club, its staff, and its fantastic fans, and it will forever make me proud to be a part of the club's history. The groundwork has been laid, and I wish the club all the very best in its restructuring and continued success. Borussia Dortmund, the incredible stadium, and the South Stand will always hold a special place in my heart. It has been an honour.”
Kehl spent 13 years as a Dortmund player between 2002 and 2015, before returning as head of the professional players' department in 2018. Four years later, he moved into the role he has today exited, playing his part in the Black-Yellows run to the 2023/24 UEFA Champions League final.
It is not yet known who will step into Kehl's shoes, or when his replacement will be announced.
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