Following last season’s Champions League final, Terzic chose to resign, unexpectedly making Sahin the new head coach of Borussia Dortmund. In an interview, Sahin stated that he did not want to remain an assistant forever and had made adequate preparations before taking over the team.
Regarding his unexpected appointment as head coach of Borussia Dortmund, Sahin expressed that he was unwilling to be an assistant coach for life, “I didn’t want to always be an assistant, and Terzic was well aware of this. Being an assistant isn’t a role that would stay with me for long, especially considering I’ve also served as head coach before (note: served as head coach of the Turkish team Antalyaspor).”
Sahin then discussed the differences between being an assistant coach and a head coach, “The main difference is the final decision-making authority. However, when an assistant suddenly becomes the head coach, the players need time to adjust. But whether you’re a coach or a player, mutual respect is crucial, and everyone needs to play their part. Although I’m only 35 years old, I have a 13-year-old child, so I understand the mindset of the younger generation.”
When asked why he included Piszczek in his coaching staff, Sahin explained that he is very familiar with Piszczek and has maintained contact with him, which is why he immediately invited Piszczek to join his coaching staff after becoming the head coach of Borussia Dortmund.
Regarding whether Emre Can would continue as captain of Borussia Dortmund, Sahin said, “We have no other plans at the moment, and besides, there are still 10 players on vacation. It’s pointless to discuss this topic now.”
Concerning his sudden takeover of Borussia Dortmund, Sahin stated that he was fully prepared and capable of handling the job, “Of course, my taking over came as a surprise to everyone, as they expected Terzic to stay. However, I believe I am ready; otherwise, I wouldn’t have taken on the team. Moreover, I trust that the club has great confidence in me, otherwise they wouldn’t have appointed me.”