Borussia Dortmund attacking midfielder Giannis Konstantelias will be out of action for several months after suffering a torn anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee during Saturday's Bundesliga victory over Hamburger SV.
The Greek international sustained the injury in the 54th minute of Dortmund's opening match of the league season at the Westfalenstadion. Medical personnel rushed onto the pitch to treat the player before helping him walk off the field.
Before the injury, Konstantelias had enjoyed a memorable debut in German football. He scored his first Bundesliga goal in first-half stoppage time, finding the net in the 45+1 minute to open his scoring account for the club. Nine minutes into the second half, his leg twisted awkwardly as he tried to tackle an opponent to win back possession, causing him to fall to the grass holding his knee in pain.
Medical confirmation and club reaction
Borussia Dortmund officially confirmed the worst-case scenario on Sunday following comprehensive medical examinations. Head coach Niko Kovac had admitted on Saturday evening that he feared a major injury, while Sports Director Ole Book and General Director of Football Lars Ricken both appeared visibly distressed when addressing reporters after the match at the Westfalenstadion.
In a statement released on social media on Sunday, the club confirmed the ACL diagnosis for their new signing. Dortmund stated that the entire club stood behind Konstantelias and expressed full support for his recovery, adding that he would come back stronger.
Widespread reaction and injury impact
The injury became the leading story across German sports media on Sunday, with commentators noting that Dortmund's victory over Hamburg had come at a very high cost. A torn anterior cruciate ligament is one of the most severe setbacks an athlete can face, requiring surgical repair and a lengthy recovery period that will keep the player sidelined for most of the campaign.
News of the injury also prompted tributes in Greece, where players from PAOK dedicated a goal to their former teammate during a 2-1 win over Atromitos in Peristeri on Sunday night. The Greek international now begins a structured rehabilitation program as Dortmund adjust their squad plans for the remainder of the season.
