Greek midfielder Giannis Konstantelias scored on his Bundesliga debut for Borussia Dortmund before suffering a serious knee injury during the second half of his side's victory over Hamburg.
Dortmund officials fear the 23-year-old international midfielder may have damaged his anterior cruciate ligament, transforming an ideal start to his German career into a major injury concern.
Konstantelias, who completed a transfer from Greek club PAOK in the summer, scored in his first appearance for Dortmund after quickly fitting into the squad. Fellow Greek player Konstantinos Karetsas provided an assist during the match. However, the debut ended in distress during the second half when Konstantelias fell writhing on the grass with a knee issue and limped off the pitch.
Dortmund Sports Director Fears the Worst
Borussia Dortmund sports director Lars Ricken did not hide his anxiety regarding the midfielder's condition following the match. Speaking in the mixed zone, Ricken said he could state that the club would wait for the results of medical examinations scheduled for the following day and hope for the best. However, he stated that he had to be honest and that the club actually fears the worst.
Ricken added that the team needed to be careful with its public statements, but confirmed that they are definitely worried about a serious injury. When asked directly whether the issue involved the cruciate ligament, Ricken confirmed that it was indeed the problem.
The sports director was also asked if Dortmund would move into the transfer market before the summer window closes if a major injury is confirmed. Ricken explained that the club would discuss potential transfer activity depending on the severity of the diagnosis, but noted that nothing was planned for at least the next three days.
Head Coach Reaction and Medical Status
Borussia Dortmund head coach Niko Kovac expressed similar concern after the match. Kovac said the team may have paid a very high price for its victory against Hamburg if the worst-case scenario regarding Konstantelias is confirmed.
Konstantelias is a 23-year-old offensive midfielder who joined Dortmund from PAOK, a major Greek football club based in Thessaloniki. The Bundesliga is Germany's top-flight professional football league, where the summer transfer window closes at the end of August. Cruciate ligament injuries are among the most severe knee injuries in professional sports, often requiring surgical reconstruction and months of rehabilitation.
Dortmund officials and medical staff are awaiting final diagnostic test results on Sunday to determine the full extent of the damage to the player's knee.
