Borussia Dortmund's Konstantinos Karetsas Hospitalized After Collapsing on Champions League Debut
During Borussia Dortmund's Champions League match with Villarreal, 18-year-old forward Konstantinos Karetsas collapsed on the pitch, leading to immediate medical attention and a hospital trip. The incident took place as Karetsas made his first appearance in Europe’s top club competition.
Alarming Incident in Spain
On Tuesday night, the football community was shaken when Karetsas suddenly went down during the game. After completing a simple pass, he showed signs of distress and signaled to the referee before sitting down on the grass. Concern spread quickly among players and fans as it became clear something was seriously wrong.
Dortmund Issues Official Statement
Borussia Dortmund confirmed that the player’s collapse was caused by circulatory system problems. Their statement read: "Konstantinos Karetsas had to leave the field due to circulatory problems. Kosta is doing well under the circumstances and is on his way to the hospital for further tests."
"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 while expressing the team's concerns.
Summer Transfers and Injuries Challenge Dortmund
Karetsas joined Borussia Dortmund over the summer alongside fellow Greek international Giannis Konstantelias as part of a recruitment push for young talent. Karetsas arrived from Genk for a reported €30 million (£25.7m/$34.9m), while Konstantelias was signed from PAOK for €26 million (£22.3m/$30.2m). Both were expected to be key players this season.
Unfortunately, injuries have hit the new signings hard. Konstantelias suffered a serious ACL injury on his Bundesliga debut last month, likely ending his season. These setbacks have complicated manager Niko Kovac’s plans as the team navigates a demanding schedule in both domestic and European competitions.
Dortmund Fight Back to Win Despite Worrying Moments
Despite the scare surrounding Karetsas, Dortmund rallied to claim a 3-2 victory in Spain. The score was still 0-0 when Karetsas left the pitch, but the match later burst into life. Forward Guirassy marked his 100th appearance for Dortmund with two late goals, securing all three points and surpassing Robert Lewandowski’s goal record.
While the win keeps Dortmund’s Champions League hopes alive, the club’s main concern remains the health of Konstantinos Karetsas.
- Match: Borussia Dortmund vs Villarreal
- Final Score: 3-2
- Karetsas Age: 18
- Transfer Fee for Karetsas: €30 million (£25.7m/$34.9m)
- Transfer Fee for Konstantelias: €26 million (£22.3m/$30.2m)
- Injury to Konstantelias: Serious ACL injury on Bundesliga debut
- Guirassy Milestone: 100th appearance and late brace
