Dortmund, Germany – In a stunning development that reverberates through the world of women’s football, Alexandra Popp, the celebrated German international, is leaving VfL Wolfsburg after 14 years to join Borussia Dortmund. The move, confirmed Saturday, sees the 34-year-old striker sign a contract with the Black and Yellows that extends through June 30, 2029.
The announcement comes as a surprise, not only due to Popp’s long and successful tenure with Wolfsburg, but also because Dortmund currently competes in the Regionalliga West, the third tier of German women’s football. This ambitious move signals a clear intent from BVB to rapidly ascend the ranks and establish themselves as a force in the Frauen-Bundesliga.
A Historic Career at Wolfsburg
Popp’s departure marks the conclude of an era at Wolfsburg, where she became a club icon. During her time with the Wolves, she secured an impressive haul of seven German championships, two Champions League titles, and a remarkable 13 DFB-Pokal (German Cup) victories. She also earned 145 caps for the German national team, scoring 67 goals, and was a key member of the Olympic gold medal-winning team at the 2016 Rio Games.
The forward announced her decision in an Instagram video, expressing the difficulty of leaving a club she’s called home for so long. Shortly after, Borussia Dortmund officially unveiled Popp to fans before their men’s Bundesliga match against FC Augsburg, a gesture highlighting the significance of this transfer. “After 14 years at VfL, a lot of consideration and a lot of emotion, the decision has been made: I will not be extending my contract with VfL Wolfsburg,” Popp stated, according to reports. She recently retired from the national team in 2024.
A Childhood Dream Realized
For Popp, the move to Dortmund represents the fulfillment of a long-held ambition. “My heart beats for this club,” she said in a press release. “I am slowly approaching the end of my career and I also have to listen to my body. I didn’t desire to miss the opportunity and the chance to play in a BVB jersey.” She added, “The interest from BVB made me proud from the very first moment, I had a sizeable grin on my face right away. For me, it’s very exciting to be able to help shape the successful path in the future.”
The timing of the transfer is particularly noteworthy, as Ralf Kellermann, Wolfsburg’s successful manager, recently joined Borussia Dortmund as Sporting Director of the women’s team. Kellermann will be instrumental in building a competitive squad around Popp as they pursue promotion to the Bundesliga.
Borussia Dortmund’s Ambitious Plans
Borussia Dortmund established its women’s football department in 2021, and the club has demonstrated a clear commitment to developing the women’s game. Currently playing in the Regionalliga West, BVB aims to climb the ranks and compete at the highest level. The acquisition of Alexandra Popp is a significant step towards achieving that goal, providing the team with a proven goalscorer and a leader on and off the pitch.
Carsten Cramer, Borussia Dortmund’s Managing Director, emphasized the importance of this signing. “Alexandra Popp is one of the most influential figures in national and international women’s football,” he stated. “What success stories she has written with a top club like VfL Wolfsburg and the German national team is extremely impressive. We are very pleased that we have succeeded in inspiring Alex for our ambitious path.” Svenja Schlenker, BVB’s Managing Director, added, “Alex’s commitment is a clear signal for the importance and future of women’s football in Dortmund.”
Popp brings a wealth of experience to Dortmund, having amassed 332 Bundesliga appearances (scoring 158 goals) and 89 Champions League matches (scoring 36 goals) in addition to her international career. Her arrival is expected to significantly boost the team’s profile and attract further investment in the women’s program.
For fans of women’s football, this transfer represents a compelling narrative: a decorated veteran choosing to embrace a new challenge with a club on the rise. It’s a move that could reshape the landscape of the Frauen-Bundesliga and provide a thrilling new chapter in Alexandra Popp’s already remarkable career.
Borussia Dortmund’s next confirmed match is yet to be announced, but the club will undoubtedly be eager to showcase their new signing as they continue their pursuit of promotion. Fans can follow updates on the BVB website and official social media channels.
