Borussia Dortmund’s head coach, Niko Kovac, has provided insight into the limited playing time of on-loan midfielder Carney Chukwuemeka.
The 21-year-old Englishman of Nigerian descent joined Dortmund from Chelsea in the January transfer window but has made only two appearances since his arrival.
Kovac explained that Chukwuemeka had limited opportunities at Chelsea, leading to a need for gradual integration into Dortmund’s squad. “He played little in London,” Kovac noted. “We have to build him up selectively. Carney gives us another dimension.”
Chukwuemeka’s move to Dortmund was finalized on February 1, 2025, with the German club securing a loan deal for the remainder of the season.
The agreement includes an option to purchase the midfielder for over £40 million. Prior to his departure, Chukwuemeka had struggled for game time at Chelsea, making just four appearances in the current season.
Since joining Dortmund, Chukwuemeka has been working to adapt to his new environment and earn a more prominent role in the team.