Sun May 11 12:40:00 UTC 2025: ## Kovac Unfazed by Alonso’s Departure as Dortmund Eyes Champions League Spot

**Leverkusen, Germany** – Borussia Dortmund coach Niko Kovac has dismissed the news of Xabi Alonso’s impending departure from Bayer Leverkusen ahead of Sunday’s crucial Bundesliga clash. Despite Alonso’s announcement that he will leave Leverkusen at the end of the season, Kovac remains focused on his own team’s objectives.

“For us, it’s not about what’s happening at Leverkusen,” Kovac stated. “We’re concentrating on ourselves and not on what’s going on elsewhere.” He expressed confidence in Dortmund’s ability to continue their recent strong form, aiming for a performance mirroring their successful run of late.

Since taking over Dortmund in February, Kovac has guided the team from 11th place to a position challenging for Champions League qualification. With only two matchdays remaining, Dortmund sits just one point behind Freiburg in fourth place.

Kovac attributes this resurgence to the team’s hard work and believes they are now on par with Leverkusen, despite the latter’s recent title loss. “Bayer Leverkusen knows that we’ve made significant progress in recent weeks. I believe we’re currently equals,” he asserted.

However, Dortmund will continue to be without forward Maximilian Beier, who is recovering from an ankle injury and is not expected to return to training until next week. The match kicks off at 3:30 PM local time and will be broadcast on DAZN.

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