Borussia Dortmund teenager Konstantinos Karetsas was transported to a hospital for medical evaluation after collapsing on the pitch just 25 minutes into his Champions League debut against Villarreal. The 18-year-old Greek international signaled to the referee for assistance after passing the ball to a teammate, eventually sitting on the grass before receiving treatment while lying down. He was subsequently stretchered off the field during the match, which ultimately concluded in a 3-2 victory for the German side.
In a statement released late Tuesday, the club confirmed that Karetsas suffered from circulatory problems but noted that he is doing well under the circumstances. Dortmund goalkeeper Gregor Kobel expressed optimism regarding his teammate’s recovery, stating, “I hope and I think that everything is OK, and I hope that he’s back and fit with us soon.”
Karetsas, a former Belgium youth international who debuted for Greece in March 2025, joined Dortmund this off-season in a deal worth $34.9 million from Genk. He has since recorded three goals in 10 international appearances and signed a five-year contract running through June 2031. Dortmund sporting director Ole Book previously praised the youngster’s technical skill, creativity, and ability to navigate tight spaces in the final third.
The club’s injury woes continue as Karetsas’ teammate, 23-year-old Giannis Konstantelias, also a significant off-season arrival from PAOK for $30.2 million, faces a likely season-ending ACL injury sustained during his Bundesliga debut last month. Karetsas had previously drawn interest from numerous clubs following a standout season at Genk, where he provided 11 assists in 28 Jupiler Pro League matches. The report also notes that the score was 0-0 at the time in what became a 3-2 win for Dortmund. The report also notes that “He is technically very skilled and has the ability to find quick solutions in tight spaces, especially in the final third.”.
