Why Sebastian Kehl wasn't chosen as Watzke's successor at Dortmund

On Monday, Borussia Dortmund announced that Lars Ricken will replace Hans-Joachim Watzke as the club's managing director for sport on May 1.

The decision came as a bit of a surprise, as many saw sporting director Sebastian Kehl as the natural successor to Watzke.

Dortmund also announced the return of former chief scout Sven Mislintat in a technical director role with a focus on squad planning, meaning Kehl will have to share some of the responsibility in that area going forward.

This may seem like a decision against Kehl, but the appreciation for his work is still high, according to local publication WAZ, who claims that it's believed within the club that he is simply best placed in his current position.

Therefore, they don't want to get rid of him, but rather convince him to extend his contract until 2027.

Kehl is aware of his qualities as a developer and communicator, and after his initial frustration at not being promoted, he is now continuing his work with great conviction - and with a vision to shape the club in a similar way to his predecessor Michael Zorc, the report says.

According to WAZ, Kehl has a great connection with Lars Ricken and that his relationship with Sven Mislintat is not as strained as other media have described it.