Lars Ricken to succeed Hans-Joachim Watzke as Borussia Dortmund's head of sport

Lars Ricken has been appointed Borussia Dortmund's new CEO of sport, and will take over from Hans-Joachim Watzke, who will be leaving the club next year.

Borussia Dortmund's boardroom restructuring is taking shape, and Lars Ricken has been appointed as the club's new CEO of sport. Ricken is set to succeed Hans-Joachim Watzke, who will be stepping down as the club's CEO next year.

Ricken spent his entire playing career with Borussia Dortmund, and returned to the club as youth coordinator following his retirement. He was appointed the director of BVB's youth department in 2020, and has played a key role in the development of a number of the club's most talented youngsters in recent years.

The 47 year old, who has signed a contract until June 2027, said, "I am convinced that with the incredible strength of this club and the passion of our many motivated employees, we will achieve great victories together and steer Borussia Dortmund into a successful future."

Sebastian Kehl was also linked with the CEO of sport role, but it has now been decided that he will stay on as the sporting director. Ricken has revealed that talks with Kehl over a contract extension will take place in the summer. Sven Mislintat's long-awaited return to Borussia Dortmund has now also been confirmed, and the 51 year old has been appointed the club's new technical director.

Ricken, Kehl and Mislintat will share the squad planning responsibilities at Borussia Dortmund, starting from this summer.

Lars Ricken spent his entire playing career at Borussia Dortmund and made more than 400 appearances for the club. He scored one of the most iconic goals in BVB history - a stunning chip just 16 seconds after coming on in the Champions League final against Juventus in 1997. Ricken will now hope to lead Borussia Dortmund to more success, as he ushers in a new era at the club.