In a bombshell revelation that will shock football fans across Europe, Borussia Dortmund's sporting director Sebastian Kehl has exposed the private pact between Erling Haaland and Jude Bellingham that preceded their world-record transfers away from the German giants.
The two young superstars, who formed a formidable partnership during their time together at Signal Iduna Park, made a secret agreement about their future career paths that has now been brought to light by the club's top official.
The Dortmund Bond That Changed Everything
Speaking candidly about the duo's relationship, Kehl revealed: "They had a very, very good relationship. They pushed each other and were also able to appreciate the performances of the other." This mutual respect and competitive drive created an environment where both players reached unprecedented levels of performance.
During their time together in the famous yellow and black kit, Haaland and Bellingham developed more than just a professional understanding - they forged a friendship that would ultimately shape their career decisions and the future of European football.
The Agreement That Shook European Football
While Kehl stopped short of revealing the exact details of their private understanding, he confirmed that the two prodigious talents had discussed their future moves extensively. "They knew that the day would come when they would leave the club," Kehl explained, acknowledging the inevitable nature of their departures given their extraordinary talent.
The timing and destinations of their moves sent shockwaves through the transfer market, with Haaland joining Manchester City in a £51 million deal that has since proven to be an absolute bargain, while Bellingham secured a mammoth £88.5 million move to Spanish giants Real Madrid.
Life After the Superstars: Dortmund's Rebuilding Mission
Kehl didn't shy away from discussing the monumental challenge of replacing two of world football's brightest talents. "It's not easy to lose such important players," he admitted, highlighting the significant gap left by their departures.
However, the Dortmund chief remains optimistic about the club's future, emphasizing their commitment to developing the next generation of footballing superstars. The German club's reputation as a breeding ground for world-class talent remains intact, even as they navigate the post-Haaland and Bellingham era.
The Legacy Continues
Both players have continued their meteoric rise since leaving Dortmund, with Haaland breaking numerous Premier League records in his debut season at Manchester City, while Bellingham has taken La Liga by storm with his sensational performances for Real Madrid.
Their success serves as testament to Dortmund's incredible ability to identify and nurture young talent, even if it means eventually losing them to Europe's financial superpowers.
