Kovac hits back at Dortmund critics
Borussia Dortmund is enjoying its best season in seven years, but head coach Niko Kovac is not happy with some of the criticism aimed at his side.
Not since 2018-2019 has Dortmund had more points at this stage of a Bundesliga season than its current tally of 67, but questions have been asked about the side's style of play.
Dortmund has suffered just four defeats all season, with only champion Bayern Munich bettering its 65 goals scored, but Kovac's critics have claimed it is not easy on the eye.
However, ahead of facing Borussia Monchengladbach on Monday (AEST), Kovac highlighted the need to find the right balance between style and substance.
"Of course, the expectations at Borussia Dortmund are significantly higher than at the other 16 Bundesliga clubs," Kovac said.
"I ask you: who, apart from Bayern Munich, consistently plays attractive football in the Bundesliga? And is attractiveness more important than success?
"You have to realise that the Bundesliga isn't a theatre stage where every performance goes the same way; a lot of it is unpredictable.
"Hardly any club offers its fans four goals and an attacking spectacle every week. I think we've certainly put on some very good and entertaining matches this season."
Gladbach is towards the bottom of the Bundesliga but still has a six-point buffer over the relegation play-off place, despite failing to win any of its past six games.
Its struggles could play into Dortmund's hands, with Kovac aiming to scoop up maximum points from its remaining three matches.
"I believe my team can reach 72 points – that would have made Borussia Dortmund German champion in 2023," he added.
"Unfortunately, it won't be enough this time."
