Kovac reveals Dortmund players' status ahead of Frankfurt clash and talks about Sabitzer and budget differences

Niko Kovač, the manager of Borussia Dortmund, discussed his team's preparations for the match against Eintracht Frankfurt, scheduled for tomorrow, revealing the players' physical condition. He also touched on Marcel Sabitzer, the criticisms directed at the team's performance, and the budgetary differences in football.

Kovac spoke about the return journey from Baku and preparations for the match: "The 11,000-kilometre journey is over. Everything is fine. Yesterday was a rest day, which is very important after all these kilometres. Today, the players who were able to train were present."

Regarding the players' physical condition, the coach explained: "Except for Costa, about whom there is no new information regarding his condition, and Kawar, who is suffering from minor muscular issues, all players are ready for tomorrow's match."

Kovac defended his team's performance in the previous match, responding to the criticism aimed at the team, saying: "We are very realistic and can assess things. If there is something bad to say, and if there is something good, we have the right to say it. I believe we deserved to win and created many chances, which we lacked in previous matches."

The coach spoke about Marcel Sabitzer's situation, emphasizing the player's importance despite strong competition for a place. He said: "Sabi is performing well, and he is diligent in training, but we have strong competition in the squad. He will get his chance, as he is an important part of this team."

Kovac expressed his connection to Borussia Dortmund, affirming his full commitment to the club, saying: "Wherever I work, I leave my heart there. We completely identify with Borussia Dortmund and give everything in every second we spend here."

Regarding the team's rules before matches, the coach revealed that the use of phones is banned during the final meal, explaining: "There is a final meal before the match, and phones are not allowed. I want us to focus and talk to each other."

Kovac also touched on the financial disparities in football, referring to Bayern Munich and citing a saying that reflects the relationship between spending and potential, stating: "We have a saying: the more money you pay, the better the music you get. Without money, there is no music, and that is the case in football and life in general."