Dortmund’s Karetsas Hospitalized After Collapsing in Champions League Debut

Borussia Dortmund confirmed that teenage prospect Konstantinos Karetsas is undergoing hospital treatment after collapsing 25 minutes into his Champions League debut. The club released a statement late Tuesday confirming the 18-year-old left the pitch due to circulatory issues but is currently stable and scheduled for further medical tests.

The incident occurred during a match against Villarreal. Karetsas signaled distress to the referee while playing, sat down on the turf, and was subsequently carried off on a stretcher after receiving on-field attention. The game, which Dortmund eventually won 3-2, was scoreless at the time of the evacuation.

Dortmund goalkeeper Gregor Kobel expressed hope for the young player’s recovery, telling broadcasters, “I hope and I think that everything is OK, and I hope that he’s back and fit with us soon.”

Karetsas, a Greek international who previously represented Belgium at the youth level, was a marquee signing for the German side this off-season. He joined from Belgian club Genk for approximately $34.9 million, having set up 11 goals in 28 Jupiler Pro League appearances last season. Sporting director Ole Book praised the player’s creativity and technical skill, noting his ability to solve problems in tight spaces within the final third.

Karetsas signed a contract running through June 2031 and made his debut for the Greek national team in March 2025, scoring three goals in 10 caps. His arrival coincided with that of fellow Greek recruit Giannis Konstantelias, who moved from PAOK for $30.2 million. However, Konstantelias’ season was likely concluded last month after suffering an ACL injury during his Bundesliga debut.