Borussia Dortmund have confirmed captain Emre Can will miss a significant period after suffering a torn anterior cruciate ligament during Saturday’s Bundesliga meeting with Bayern Munich.
The injury occurred during the heated Klassiker at Signal Iduna Park, with Can initially attempting to continue before eventually being forced off.
Medical examinations carried out after the match confirmed damage to the ACL in his left knee, ruling the midfielder out for several months.
The setback deals a major blow to Dortmund, who lose not only an experienced presence in midfield but also one of the dressing room’s central figures at an important stage of the season.
Sporting director Sebastian Kehl admitted the news had hit the club hard, describing the injury as a devastating moment for both player and team.
Kehl also added that Can’s influence on the team goes beyond his performances on the pitch and confirmed Dortmund will fully support their captain throughout his rehabilitation.
The timing of his injury raises serious uncertainty over his immediate future. Can, 32, has remained a regular figure for BVB since taking on the captaincy role.
He is valued for his leadership and willingness to fill multiple roles across defence and midfield when needed.
Can’s current contract is set to expire at the end of the season, meaning his recovery will now come alongside discussions about what comes next for both player and club.
Dortmund must now move forward without their captain for the remainder of the campaign, while Can begins what is expected to be a lengthy rehabilitation away from the pitch.
