Who will swim?
Julian Ryerson: From my understanding of Niko Kovac’s coaching style, he demands a lot of hard work and tenacity, both of which describe Julian Ryerson perfectly. Even on his off days, Ryerson fights for every ball and chases when he’s dispossessed. I think he has the ideal personality to thrive under a coach like Niko Kovač.
Serhou Guirassy: The Guinean striker has found some form under Tullberg, but the creativity in play around him allowed this to happen. Kovac is no stranger to working with strikers of Guirassy's caliber, and Serhou has shown that he can convert when proper service is provided. I expect Kovac to implement the striker in a way Sahin couldn’t, to further involve Guirassy. I also think Kovac won’t put up with any theatrics from Guirassy, which will serve to benefit both the player and the team.
Daniel Svensson & Carney Chukwuemeka: Borussia Dortmund waited until the last minute to secure their January transfers, but as a result, new manager Niko Kovač likely had input regarding these two signings. Svensson will undoubtedly secure game-time, especially with the lack of depth in Dortmund’s back-line, and I expect him to rise to the occasion. The young Englishman, Chukwuemeka, on the other hand, should slot into BVB’s midfield as a reinforcement. With a pricy buy-option at the end of his loan, Chukwuemeka will need to impress for a permanent deal, but I think he’s in Niko Kovač’s plans.