Personnel
Paul Schaffran named new director of the youth academy
Schaffran has been working in BVB’s youth development program since 2021, initially as “Head of Sports Science” and, since July 2024, as “Head of Strategy and Development.” In July 2025, the 39-year-old was promoted to head of the youth academy.
Lars Ricken, who served as director of the youth academy until his appointment as Borussia Dortmund’s Managing Director of Sports in May 2024, explains: “Paul Schaffran has established himself as a key leader at our youth academy and, in recent months, has played a leading role in setting the course for its successful future. Our goal at Borussia Dortmund is to continue developing and improving in all areas. With Paul in his new role as director, we believe our youth academy is in the best possible position to achieve this.”
Even before joining BVB, Schaffran spent nearly three years as coordinator of the “Talent Development in Youth Soccer” collaboration project between the Black and Yellows’ Youth Academy and Ruhr University Bochum.
Paul Schaffran emphasizes: “I would like to thank those in charge – and above all Lars Ricken – for the trust they have placed in me. I am very pleased that the path we have embarked upon at the Youth Training Center has received this approval and support. At the same time, it motivates me to continue steadfastly on this path together with my team and to further advance youth development at Borussia Dortmund.”
