Konstantinos Karetsas collapsed with circulatory problems during Dortmund’s Champions League clash with Villarreal on Tuesday.
The 18‑year‑old fell moments after a pass, alone on the pitch. He signaled the bench for help, received treatment for several minutes and was taken off on a stretcher at the 27th minute.
Dortmund issued a statement in the second half confirming the youngster was en route to hospital.
The club said, ‘Konstantinos Karetsas had to leave the field due to circulatory problems. Kosta is stable and heading to the hospital for further examinations.’
For my money, the club handled the situation responsibly, avoiding speculation while prioritising his health. Managing director Lars Ricken explained that Karetsas felt light‑headed, showed no prior symptoms and was taken for tests, warning against rumors.
Karetsas arrived from Belgian side Genk this summer and has started all three Bundesliga and Champions League fixtures, while also featuring off the bench in the DFB‑Pokal and German Super Cup.
Injuries have already hit Dortmund, with fellow Greek Giannis Konstantelias tearing his left ACL on his league debut after moving from PAOK, prompting the loan signing of Arsenal prospect Ethan Nwaneri.
Dortmund sit atop a perfect domestic start, two wins and a 3‑2 Champions League victory, and now face Paderborn at home on Saturday. Will the team maintain momentum without Karetsas?