DORTMUND (dpa-AFX) - Borussia Dortmund has made a surprise signing for the upcoming season, appointing Ralf Kellermann as Sporting Director for its women's football division, which currently competes in the third tier. The 57-year-old has signed a contract with the Ruhr district club until June 2029. Kellermann will continue to serve as Director of Women's Football at Bundesliga side VfL Wolfsburg until the end of the current season.
"In Ralf Kellermann, we are gaining an absolute expert who will take women's football at Borussia Dortmund to a new level with his expertise and experience," said Carsten Cramer, spokesperson for the BVB management board.
Extensive Trophy Collection at VfL Wolfsburg
Kellermann has been with VfL Wolfsburg since 2008 as a coach and sporting director, and is widely regarded as the architect of the Lower Saxony club's success. During his tenure, the Wolfsburg women celebrated seven league championships, won the cup eleven times, and secured two Champions League titles. In 2013, they even achieved a historic treble.
Eager for the Challenge
He only announced his departure from Wolfsburg a few weeks ago. Speculation had suggested he might move to another top European club. Instead, Kellermann is joining a third-division side in the Regionalliga West. Five years ago, BVB launched an ambitious women's team and has since celebrated consecutive promotions. The ultimate goal is the Bundesliga. "Borussia Dortmund is exactly the challenge I am eager to take on," Kellermann said./kam/DP/mis
