Karim Adeyemi’s brief stint under interim coach Mike Tullberg came to an end with a late substitution in Borussia Dortmund’s clash against FC Heidenheim.
However, with the arrival of new coach Niko Kovač, the winger’s fortunes could be about to change. Kovač, addressing the situation at a press conference, called the moment one every footballer dislikes, emphasizing the need for Adeyemi to stay focused and rise to the challenge.
“These are moments that no footballer likes,” Kovač acknowledged ahead of Dortmund’s match with VfB Stuttgart. “But as a player you have to be able to classify that accordingly.” After speaking with the 23-year-old, Kovač voiced his confidence in Adeyemi’s abilities and set clear expectations.
“We all know what qualities he has,” Kovač said. “He just has to keep it. If he does this and starts his speed, it is really a very, very important factor for us.” But Kovač also emphasized the need for Adeyemi to work harder defensively: “Football is not only made of attack, but of course also from defense. It is also part of it.” Kovač hopes this new chapter will see the winger reach his full potential, benefitting both himself and Dortmund.
