Dortmund appoints Kovac as head coach after Champions League progress

Niko Kovac is set to become the new head coach of Borussia Dortmund, starting this Sunday, following the club's 3-1 victory over Shakhtar Donetsk, which secured their place in the Champions League playoffs. He replaces Nuri Sahin, who was dismissed after a series of poor results, and interim coach Mike Tullberg will manage the team during the upcoming Bundesliga match against Heidenheim. Dortmund currently sits 11th in the Bundesliga, having won only one of their last eight league games. Kovac, previously with Bayern Munich and Wolfsburg, is expected to bring a disciplined approach to a team struggling after last season's Champions League final appearance. Managing director Lars Ricken confirmed the agreement with Kovac, stating discussions about potential signings would occur before the transfer window closes. Dortmund will face either Club Brugge or Sporting Lisbon in the Champions League playoffs, aiming to secure a spot in the last 16.