Borussia Dortmund's Konstantinos Karetsas Hospitalized After Collapsing in Champions League Debut
In a troubling moment during Borussia Dortmund's Champions League match with Villarreal, 18-year-old star Konstantinos Karetsas suddenly collapsed on the pitch. The young forward was experiencing his first appearance in Europe's top competition when the incident occurred, forcing him to be taken off for urgent medical attention.
Medical Emergency Unfolds in Spain
The football community was stunned Tuesday night as Karetsas, who had just played a simple pass, began showing signs of distress before sitting down on the grass. Teammates and fans grew alarmed as he signaled the referee about his condition, leading to his immediate removal from the game and transport to the hospital.
Dortmund Confirms Circulatory Issues
Borussia Dortmund promptly issued a statement clarifying that Karetsas's problem involved his circulatory system. The club said, "Kosta is doing well under the circumstances and is on his way to the hospital for further tests." The situation remains serious but stable.
"I hope and I think that everything is OK and I hope that he's back and fit with us soon," said Dortmund goalkeeper Gregor Kobel after the match, reflecting the team's concern and hope.
Summer Signings Face Setbacks
Karetsas joined Dortmund this summer from Genk for a significant €30 million (£25.7m/$34.9m), alongside fellow Greek international Giannis Konstantelias, who arrived for €26 million (£22.3m/$30.2m) from PAOK. Both were brought in to strengthen Dortmund’s European ambitions but have encountered serious challenges.
Tragically, Konstantelias suffered a severe ACL injury in his Bundesliga debut last month, likely ending his season. These injuries have complicated manager Niko Kovac’s plans amid an intense schedule.
Dortmund Secures Victory Despite Incident
Despite the somber mood following Karetsas's collapse, Dortmund rallied to a 3-2 win in Spain. The score was still 0-0 when Karetsas left the field, but the match came alive later. Guirassy, marking his 100th game for the club, scored twice late to clinch victory and surpass Robert Lewandowski's goal tally.
While the win keeps Dortmund’s Champions League hopes alive, the focus remains on Karetsas’s recovery and well-being.
- Match Date: 12 September 2026
- Match Time: 15:30 (Dortmund vs Paderborn)
- Upcoming Fixture: 14 September 2026, 21:00 (Villarreal vs Real Betis)
