Dortmund’s contract negotiations take a back seat to league chase

Under the floodlights at the Westfalenstadion, Auf dem Platz Borussia Dortmund sit second in the Bundesliga. The Schwarz‑Gelb side have also secured a place in the DFB‑Pokal round of 16. In the Champions League they are currently on target, matching their domestic form.

Contract decisions loom for four stars

Off the pitch, the club’s officials are keeping busy with contract matters. Four key regulars – goalkeeper Gregor Kobel, defenders Julian Ryerson and Waldemar Anton and forward Serhou Guirassy – have contracts that expire in the summer of 2028. The BVB hierarchy must soon decide whether to retain them long‑term or sell them after this season. A free departure in the summer after next is not being pursued.

Extending Anton and Kobel is viewed as the top priority. The club also intends to offer new deals to Ryerson and Guirassy. Nevertheless, despite Guirassy’s increased confidence this season, his next contract remains uncertain.

"Guirassy should extend, but he must wait; he is not at the front of the queue," BVB reporter Sebastian Wessling told ‑Podcast ‘Dortmund Insider’, adding that Anton will be the first to sign, followed by Kobel this year, before talks with Ryerson and Guirassy commence. Negotiations with Guirassy are slated to begin early in the year, in spring.

Officials may use the intervening period to assess his performances further. Guirassy opened the new season with seven goals and two assists. He is expected to deliver crucial goals in big fixtures such as the Saturday classic against Bayern Munich.