Borussia Dortmund officially announced the termination of their collaboration with their sporting director Sebastian Kehl, in a decision made amicably between both parties and with immediate effect, following a meeting described as candid between the club's management and the former player.

The club clarified that both parties reached a mutual understanding that the time had come to make changes in preparation for the next phase, even though the timing was surprising to some, especially since Kiel was still under an ongoing contract.

Kehl expressed his strong connection to the club where he spent about 24 years, emphasizing his pride in what he achieved with the team, both as a player and as an administrator. He participated in 748 matches in various roles and contributed to several accomplishments, most notably the Bundesliga and the historic double in 2012, as well as reaching the UEFA Champions League final in 2024 during his administrative tenure.

For its part, the Dortmund management expressed gratitude to Kehl for his efforts and dedication, considering his departure a turning point in the club's sports structure, while confirming that his successor will be announced later as part of the rebuilding plan for the new season.