Borussia Dortmund's Konstantinos Karetsas hospitalised after Champions League collapse
18-year-old Borussia Dortmund midfielder Konstantinos Karetsas was hospitalised after collapsing during his Champions League debut against Villarreal.
Tuesday night's Champions League encounter between Villarreal and Borussia Dortmund was marred by a medical emergency involving 18-year-old midfielder Konstantinos Karetsas. During his tournament debut, the teenager was forced to leave the field after suffering a sudden collapse.
Karetsas was seen struggling after playing a pass, eventually sitting down on the pitch before receiving urgent medical attention. He was subsequently taken to a local hospital for further evaluation.
Dortmund issued an official statement shortly after the incident, clarifying the situation: "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."
Goalkeeper Gregor Kobel offered his support to his teammate after the final whistle, stating: "I hope and I think that everything is OK and I hope that he's back and fit with us soon."
This season has been difficult for Dortmund regarding their high-profile summer signings. Karetsas joined for a significant fee, while fellow recruit Giannis Konstantelias is already sidelined for the remainder of the campaign with an ACL injury.
Despite the distress caused by the incident, Dortmund secured a 3-2 victory in Spain thanks to a late brace from Serhou Guirassy, keeping their European ambitions alive as the club monitors the health of their young star.