Kovac hails BVB‑Youngstern after Arsenal win and sounds transfer warning

Head coach Niko Kovac praised Borussia Dortmund’s 3‑2 test‑match victory over FC Arsenal, highlighting the impact of three BVB‑Youngstern who featured, while also issuing a Transfer‑Warnung about the club’s upcoming market moves. The win, achieved on Tuesday, gave the side a morale boost and underscored the need for fresh talent as senior players depart.

Kovac said the feeling (Gefühl) after a Testspiel win against a major opponent (Gegner) is invaluable, and the consequences (Konsequenzen) extend beyond the scoreline. He added that such victories in Testspiele give the squad confidence for the season.

One of the highlighted youngsters, Konstantinos Karetsas, scored the decisive goal that put Dortmund ahead 2‑0. The club’s investment of roughly 30 million euros in the 19‑year‑old confirms the belief in his potential and gives the young striker a positive start at Schwarz‑Gelb.

Kovac’s statements (Aussagen) emphasized that Karetsas still needs time, noting he is not yet physically at the desired level and therefore played only 45 minutes as part of load management. He also praised the youngster’s footballing quality, calling it exactly what every team needs and saying the club is very happy with his progress.

Seventeen‑year‑old Kaua Prates also made his debut, impressing Kovac with fine ball control, speed and power. The coach acknowledged room for improvement but described him as a good boy who can serve as a reliable backup after just one week of training.

Filippo Mane, starting from the back line, delivered a solid performance, with Kovac noting the three centre‑backs, including Joane Gadou, showed strength and power. He highlighted Mane’s injury‑related challenges but warned that if his health remains constant, he will become a valuable player for Dortmund.

Transfer market caution and source details

While Dortmund have already integrated several new signings, the transfer plan is not final; Said El Mala is currently the most prominent candidate according to 90min. Kovac warned that the market is difficult, even for big clubs, and that BVB must be careful with spending.