Manchester United Sound Out Dortmund Boss Niko Kovac in Managerial Search
Manchester United have made contact with Borussia Dortmund head coach Niko Kovac as they continue background work on a long term successor in the dugout. The 54 year old has emerged as a serious candidate, with early discussions taking place as the club plans its next permanent appointment following Ruben Amorim’s exit.
The initial approach is understood to be exploratory rather than formal, but Kovac’s name sits prominently on United’s internal shortlist. His strong relationship with United executive Christopher Vivell has helped open direct lines of communication, allowing the club to gather clarity on his situation and long term availability.
The interest reflects United’s desire to restore structure and authority after a turbulent period. Vivell, who has deep experience in the German market, is believed to be central to the process and has maintained close contact with Kovac for some time. United’s inquiry signals intent, even if no immediate move is planned.
Kovac is currently settled at Dortmund, where he signed a contract extension that runs until 2027. His current focus remains on domestic and European competition, but the timing of United’s approach shows they are mapping options well in advance rather than reacting late in the cycle.
The Premier League continues to hold strong appeal for Kovac. While committed to Dortmund, the manager is understood to be open to an eventual move to England, viewing it as a natural next step in his career. That openness has not gone unnoticed among elite English clubs.
Chelsea also explored Kovac as a potential option earlier this season following the dismissal of Enzo Maresca. Internal discussions took place before the club ultimately pursued a different route, underlining the widespread respect Kovac commands among Premier League decision makers.
Kovac’s profile has long divided opinion in Germany, where debate often centres on style rather than substance. In England, his disciplined and results driven approach is viewed as a strength, particularly by clubs seeking stability and tactical clarity after periods of inconsistency.
That reputation was shaped in part by his decision to reject Tottenham several years ago. Following Jose Mourinho’s departure, Spurs identified Kovac as their leading candidate while he was managing Monaco. Despite a concrete offer, he declined out of loyalty to his project in France.
The decision proved costly in the short term, as Monaco dismissed him six months later. Tottenham moved on to alternative options, but the episode reinforced Kovac’s standing as a manager guided by principle rather than convenience, a quality that resonates with United’s current leadership.
On the pitch, his Dortmund tenure continues to strengthen his case. The club sit second in the Bundesliga and remain competitive in the Champions League, form that prompted the board to secure his services with an extension earlier this year.
With Dortmund set to visit England for a Champions League tie against Tottenham, scrutiny around Kovac’s future is likely to intensify. For now, he remains fully committed to his role, but United’s early groundwork suggests they see him as a credible option to lead the club into the post Amorim era.