From the Guardian · · 2m
Dortmund's 2023 ghosts finally laid to rest
Borussia Dortmund reclaim the Bundesliga summit for the first time since their title collapse three years ago.
In brief
Borussia Dortmund reclaim the Bundesliga summit for the first time since their title collapse three years ago. Dortmund's 4-0 start under Niko Kovac shows they're climbing back to relevance through patient, defensive football rather than trying to recreate their Klopp era. Originally reported by the Guardian.
Dortmund's painful 2023 memory
In May 2023, Dortmund topped the Bundesliga with German champion shirts ready for sale. Then their dreams imploded completely.
Four wins to start the season
Under Niko Kovac, Dortmund have won all four games so far this season and now sit atop the Bundesliga table.
Stuttgart showdown shows progress
Dortmund beat Stuttgart 1-0 in a tight match that showed how far they've come defensively under Kovac's coaching.
Bellingham and Beier combine
Jobe Bellingham came off the bench to set up Maximilian Beier for the winning goal, showing both players' adaptability.
Kovac's defensive blueprint works
Dortmund's patient, poised approach under Kovac is a departure from their swashbuckling past but proving effective.
Redemption against Stuttgart matters
Last season Dortmund lost twice to Stuttgart. This win shows they've turned a corner against direct rivals.
Not quite title contenders yet
Dortmund sit first but Bayern Munich finished last season 16 points ahead. The gap remains enormous.
“It's about annoying Bayern a bit”
Annoying Bayern is the goal
Dortmund managing director Lars Ricken framed the challenge as reducing Bayern's dominance rather than winning the title.
Can't relive the Klopp years
Dortmund won't return to relevance by trying to recreate Jürgen Klopp's era or copying Bayern's approach.
Climbing the right ladder slowly
Dortmund are progressing steadily and diligently, though they'll need Bayern to slip to truly challenge for the title.
Kane hits 100 Bundesliga goals
Harry Kane reached 100 Bundesliga goals in just 98 games, faster than anyone in league history, in Bayern's 7-0 rout of Union Berlin.
Leverkusen honor Peter Hermann
Bayer Leverkusen beat RB Leipzig 2-0 while mourning Peter Hermann, Jupp Heynckes' assistant from the 2013 treble-winning season, who died at 73.
Promoted teams find their feet
All three promoted teams now have a win after Paderborn beat Hoffenheim, with Werder Bremen also securing an impressive comeback victory.
What it means
Dortmund's 4-0 start under Niko Kovac shows they're climbing back to relevance through patient, defensive football rather than trying to recreate their Klopp era.
