Following a successful time at Elversberg , Nils-Ole Book has now been named the new Sporting Director of Borussia Dortmund signing a contract until June 2029. He comes in place of Sebastian Kehl who departed the club a few days ago.
The legendary midfielder has been with Borussia Dortmund for 24 years both as a player and an official but his decisions in the transfer market have been questioned. In time, he and the club agreed to part ways.
In appointing Book, Borussia Dortmund has made a bold decision and took a gamble. Book doesn’t have experience working in the Bundesliga and comes from a second division side. Even though his work at Elversberg has been impressive, helping them climb from Regionalliga to the top of the second division, this will be a big step for him.
Dortmund have shown that they want to break from the old tried and tested methods and try something new. People familiar with his work are heaping praise on Book and saying that he is the fresh input needed for Borussia Dortmund- a team that looks to be stuck in second gear.
If Borussia Dortmund are to push Bayern Munich for the league title a new approach especially in terms of recruiting new players is needed. Ole Book is believed to provide that edge and was Lars Ricken's preferred choice.
"“With Ole Book, we have been able to bring our desired candidate for the position of sporting director to BVB. I have followed his outstanding work in Elversberg, first as sporting director and most recently as board member for sport, for a long time and am absolutely convinced that Ole is a great fit for us, both professionally and personally. With him in charge of sporting matters, Elversberg made the leap from the Regionalliga to the top of the second division, developing many young talents along the way and simultaneously building squad value. We have great confidence in Ole and his expertise when it comes to developing creative and bold ideas in the transfer market.” "Lars Ricken.
" “I want to do my part to ensure BVB's continued success, and I'm looking forward to contributing my ideas and convictions and working with a strong team. Borussia Dortmund are very special for me, with an emotional connection dating back to my childhood. That's why I would like to thank SV Elversberg, and especially Dominik Holzer, for allowing me to start my work in Dortmund right away.”"Ole Book
Borussia Dortmund seem to be taking the right stride towards ensuring success in the coming years. Whether the trust the club has placed on Book will be repaid will remain to be seen.