Gregor Kobel has been an unsung hero at Borussia Dortmund. Since joining from VfB Stuttgart in 2021, he's not only found a stable footing in his career, but also emerged as one of the best goalkeepers in the Bundesliga.
Known for his shotstopping ability, composure under pressure and excellent distribution skills, the Switzerland international has consistently delivered for the BVB, turning in talismanic displays as their last line of defense.
He's now made 222 appearances for Dortmund in all competitions, keeping 73 clean sheets. Last season, Kobel had also registered the most number of shutouts in the German top-flight with 15 as Dortmund conceded the least number of goals in the competition (34 goals).
Now the club wants to reward their star performer with a new contract which is set to keep him at the Signal Iduna Park for a long time. According to Germany news outlet SPORT BILD, the BVB are planning to enter into negotiations with him over a possible extension and may finalize a deal soon.
His current deal ends in June 2028. But the club expressing desire to keep him as part of their long-term project further highlights how much they value him, and fans have every reason to be excited about this development too.
Even as the club went through the motions in recent times, the 28-year-old has been a beacon of consistency for them. His clutch performances had even reportedly alerted some top guns around Europe such as Manchester United and Chelsea last year.
With Kobel contuining to guard the nets for Dortmund for several more years, their goalkeeper's position is secured and will remain in safe hands. What's more, the player himself sees a long-term future with the side and has expressed contentment at representing the Bundesliga giants.
BILD has quoted him saying:
"I’m absolutely delighted at BVB; I really enjoy playing for this club and in front of these fans. Of course, I can certainly see myself playing here for a long time to come."
He's also heaped praise on manager Niko Kovac for laying the foundations of their success lately, crediting him for restoring the club's identity which seemed lost before his arrival.
"Niko Kovac has brought a clear structure and culture here, which forms the basis of our success. In a team, there are many different cultures and languages. You have to find common ground and a shared path. And Niko has certainly ensured that."
Kobel returns to action for the BVB tonight against Werder Bremen.
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