Borussia Dortmund's Konstantinos Karetsas Hospitalized After Collapse in Champions League Debut

Teenage Talent Konstantinos Karetsas Collapses During Champions League Match

During Borussia Dortmund's Champions League match against Villarreal, 18-year-old forward Konstantinos Karetsas was taken to hospital after collapsing on the pitch. The incident occurred as Karetsas made his first appearance in Europe's top club competition.

Sudden Medical Emergency in Spain

The event left fans and players shaken on Tuesday night. Karetsas had just passed the ball when he suddenly showed signs of distress, signaling to the referee before sitting down on the grass. Immediate concern surrounded the young player’s condition.

Dortmund Confirms Circulatory Issue

Borussia Dortmund quickly issued a statement explaining that Karetsas was experiencing circulatory problems. They reassured supporters that he was stable and being transported to hospital for further examinations. The club said, "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 game during an interview with Amazon Prime.

Summer Signings and Injury Woes

Karetsas joined Dortmund over the summer from Genk for around €30 million (£25.7m/$34.9m), part of a recruitment strategy targeting promising young players. Another Greek international, Giannis Konstantelias, also arrived for €26 million (£22.3m/$30.2m) from PAOK. Both were expected to be key figures this season.

Unfortunately, misfortune has hit Dortmund’s new signings hard. Konstantelias suffered a serious ACL injury during his Bundesliga debut, likely ending his season. This latest health scare adds to manager Niko Kovac’s challenges as the team balances intense fixtures domestically and in Europe.

Dortmund Secures Win Amidst Concern

Despite the tense moments surrounding Karetsas’ collapse, Dortmund rallied to win 3-2 in Spain. The score was still 0-0 when Karetsas left the field, but the match later burst into action.

Guirassy, marking his 100th game for Dortmund, scored twice late in the contest to clinch victory and surpass Robert Lewandowski’s goal tally for the club. While the win keeps Dortmund’s Champions League hopes alive, the main focus remains on Karetsas’ recovery and health.

• Match: Borussia Dortmund vs Villarreal
• Date: September 2026
• Score: 3-2 (Dortmund win)
• Karetsas age: 18
• Karetsas transfer fee: €30 million (£25.7m/$34.9m)
• Konstantelias transfer fee: €26 million (£22.3m/$30.2m)
• Injuries: Konstantelias - ACL; Karetsas - circulatory problem
• Manager: Niko Kovac