“Kjell isn’t just a great soccer player – he’s also a great person. His journey at Borussia Dortmund, from the U10s all the way to his debut with the first team, has been truly special. He feels a deep connection to the club, and we’re proud that he’s been with us for so many years. We wish Kjell every success and all the best as he takes his next step,” says Lars Ricken, Managing Director for Sport.
Wätjen came to Borussia Dortmund through the BVB Evonik Football Academy and joined BVB in 2015 at the age of nine. The 20-year-old has since played for all the youth teams and reached the German Championship final with the U19s in 2024. In March 2024, he signed a professional contract, and Wätjen marked his first Bundesliga appearance in May 2024 with an ******* ist. In total, he made four appearances for the first team. During his time at BVB, the German youth international won the European Championship with the U17 national team.
Last season, Wätjen was on loan to VfL Bochum and appeared in 29 competitive matches for the local rivals (2 goals). In Denmark, he will be reunited with his former Dortmund U19 coach, Mike Tullberg.