Niko Kovac has laughed off suggestions he’s at war with Karim Adeyemi, insisting the German winger is “not a bad lad” and just needs to trust him a bit more.
Rumours has been swirling around Signal Iduna Park that all is not rosy between the Croatian boss and the 23 year old. The gossip got so loud that Adeyemi was being linked with a summer exit.
But Kovac has now set the record straight in no uncertain terms.
Speaking on Bild’s ‘Phrasenmaher’ podcast, the former Bayern Munich manager opened up about their relationship and made it clear there’s no bad blood.
“I speak to all my players, but I’ve spent the most time talking to Karim since I arrived,” Kovac said.
“I really admire him. He’s a unique character, a great lad, and a decent bloke.”
Adeyemi has been a key man for the Black and Yellows since his £30million move from Red Bull Salzburg in 2022. One hundred and forty four appearances. Thirty six goals. Twenty four assists.
But this season hasn’t been plain sailing.
The Germany international has copped stick for lacking consistency. There’s been questions about his discipline too, losing his cool on the pitch more than once.
That’s where the rift rumours started. Fans put two and two together and got five.
Kovac, though, reckons Adeyemi’s biggest problem is actually being too nice.
“In my view, Adeyemi is sometimes too much of a good boy,” he added. “He’s not a bad lad, and I firmly believe he can become a truly great footballer if he makes certain adjustments.
“But for that to happen, he needs to trust me a bit more.”
That last line feels like a message. A clear one.
The winger came agonisingly close to glory in 2024 when Dortmund reached the Champions League final. Real Madrid broke their hearts. A trophy still eludes him.
Now his future is up in the air.
Adeyemi’s contract runs until 2027. But talks over an extension have stalled, according to Sport Bild. His wage demands are a sticking point. So is talk of a release clause kicking in from summer 2027.
If the negotiations collapse, Dortmund will have to cash in.
Clubs in the Premier League, Serie A and LaLiga are watching closely. They’ll be queuing up if Adeyemi becomes available.
For now, though, Kovac has made his position clear. No rift. No problem. Just a talented lad who needs to let go of the manager’s hand and run.
Whether Adeyemi listens? That’s the million euro question.
