Borussia Dortmund have confirmed the appointment of David Blacha as advisor to sporting director Ole Book. The 35-year-old will begin his new role at the Bundesliga club on 1 July 2026, returning to the organisation where he developed as a youth player.
Blacha joins from third-tier side SV Elversberg, where he has worked as a scout since ending his professional playing career in 2023. During his time at the club, he operated under Book’s leadership, establishing a working relationship that will now continue at Signal Iduna Park.
Academy graduate returns
The move represents a full-circle moment for Blacha, who spent nine years in Dortmund’s youth system between 2000 and 2009. He progressed through every age group at the eight-time German champions before departing to pursue his career in senior football.
Current sporting director Lars Ricken endorsed the appointment, drawing on his memories of Blacha’s time in the academy. “We are delighted to have secured David for Borussia Dortmund and are convinced that his abilities will help us progress,” Ricken said. “I remember David as an ambitious youth player in black and yellow and I am pleased that he is now part of BVB again.”
Scouting expertise
Blacha’s transition from player to scout began immediately after hanging up his boots in 2023. His work identifying talent in Germany’s lower divisions with Elversberg has now earned him a position at one of European football’s most renowned development clubs.
The former midfielder expressed his eagerness to contribute to the club’s future success. “I am very much looking forward to my new role at Borussia Dortmund and want to contribute to the shared success of this special club from day one,” Blacha stated.
His appointment strengthens the football operations structure under Book, adding a figure who combines institutional knowledge of Dortmund’s youth philosophy with contemporary scouting experience. As the club prepares for the 2026-27 season, Blacha’s dual perspective could prove valuable in bridging the gap between academy recruitment and senior squad planning.