Ricken: "In the end, there isn't much left"
In addition to sporting prestige, the Club World Cup also involves a lot of money. Dortmund's sporting director Lars Ricken spoke about the importance of the competition for BVB – both sportingly and financially.
Stand and answering questions: Dortmund's Lars Ricken. IMAGO/DeFodi Images
BVB had already earned €33.8 million before the round of 16 match against Monterrey at the Club World Cup – another €13 million were now at stake. "It's obvious that this is a good and important aspect for us," Dortmund's sporting director Lars Ricken admitted before the clash against the Mexicans on DAZN .
However, the 48-year-old felt it was important to emphasize that, despite the lucrative prize money, "sporting is the priority" for the Westphalians. And, in any case, being able to take part in the tournament is something special. "Playing here isn't a punishment for us, but a reward. We've earned it in the Champions League over the past four years."
In any case, the Club World Cup offers a special experience, as Ricken says. "We also see it as a bit of preparation for the new season. And as a club, you're never together for that long – not even during preseason. That's where things can grow together. In that respect, it's very important."
Ricken also admitted, however, that "the financial aspect is of course also important," after all, "today we're talking about a double-digit million amount," although this wouldn't be quite as lavish as it initially appears, because: "It's reduced by a few costs and a few bonuses. In the end, there isn't that much left over."
Ricken also commented on Jamie Gittens , who is poised to move to Chelsea. The 20-year-old was recently released for negotiations with the Blues, but is now back with the team "in the hotel"—and that's all there is to announce. "If there were a strong probability that the transfer would go through, I would announce it here," Ricken said, adding: "I obviously won't do that."
The Englishman was not in the squad against Monterrey – and for good reason. Ricken made it clear that this was "in the interest of everyone involved," as no one wanted the player to "potentially get injured."
