Borussia Dortmund has announced that Emre Can, the team’s captain, has sustained an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tear in his left knee. This injury occurred during the Bundesliga match against Bayern Munich, which resulted in a 3-2 defeat for Dortmund. The club shared this update through their official x handle, indicating that the 32-year-old will be unavailable for several months.
The club’s statement read:
Unfortunate news to end the weekend. Emre Can sustained a cruciate ligament tear in his left knee during the match against Bayern.
Softfootball reports that Can’s recovery could take a significant amount of time, typically ranging from eight to 12 months for an ACL injury. With his current contract set to expire at the end of the season, his future at Dortmund may be uncertain.
Sporting director Sebastian Kehl commented on the situation, stating through the club’s official channels:
Emre’s injury is extremely bitter. Not just for him, but for all of us. He is our captain, always puts the team first and is an important part of our club. Over the coming months, Emre will receive our full support so that he can make a complete recovery.
Can joined Dortmund from Juventus in 2020 and took on the captaincy for the 2023-24 season. This injury hampers his chances of playing for Germany in the upcoming World Cup this summer.
Throughout his international career, he has made 48 appearances for the German national team, scoring two goals, but has not played for the team since September 2024.
In related news, injury issues persist in the Bundesliga as Bayer Leverkusen defender Arthur suffered a left ankle syndesmotic ligament tear during the 1-1 draw against Mainz on February 28, 2026. The 18-year-old Brazilian, who graduated from the Palmeiras academy, is expected to be sidelined for several weeks while having made 12 appearances and provided two assists this season.
In February, Dortmund also confirmed the acquisition of Brazilian left-back Kauã Prates, who has signed a contract valid until June 2031, as the club continues to strategize for the future amid ongoing injury challenges.
