Emre Can Injured, Ruled Out For Months

Borussia Dortmund have been dealt a major injury blow after captain Emre Can suffered a cruciate ligament tear in his left knee during the Bundesliga clash with FC Bayern Munich.

The 32-year-old midfielder was forced off during the contest and subsequent medical examinations confirmed the severity of the injury. The diagnosis means Can will miss several months of action, ruling him out for the remainder of the domestic campaign and potentially beyond.

Sporting director Sebastian Kehl described the setback as a significant loss for both the player and the club.

“Emre’s injury is a bitter one to swallow, not only for him but for all of us. He is our captain, always puts himself at the service of the team and is an important part of our club. Emre will receive every support from us over the coming months so that he can make a full recovery,” Kehl said.

A key figure in 2025/26

Can has been a central presence for Dortmund this season, both as captain and as a tactical lynchpin in midfield and defence.

Before the injury, he had made 27 appearances in all competitions, including 22 Bundesliga starts, contributing:

• 3 goals
• 2 assists
• An average of 2.1 tackles and 1.7 interceptions per game in the league
• A pass completion rate of approximately 87%
• More than 2,000 minutes played across competitions

He has also featured prominently in European competition, starting all of Dortmund’s Champions League group-stage matches and playing a crucial role in their progression to the knockout rounds. His versatility, operating as a defensive midfielder, centre-back and occasional right-back, has been vital amid rotation and injuries elsewhere in the squad.

Beyond the numbers, Can’s leadership has been instrumental. Wearing the captain’s armband for much of the campaign, he has helped marshal one of the Bundesliga’s more disciplined defensive records, while also providing composure in high-pressure fixtures.

Leadership void

The timing of the injury presents a significant challenge for Dortmund as they navigate the decisive phase of the season. Replacing Can’s experience, defensive awareness and organisational qualities will require tactical adjustments from the coaching staff, as well as increased responsibility for senior figures within the squad.

An anterior cruciate ligament injury typically entails a recovery period of six to nine months, depending on rehabilitation progress. Dortmund have pledged full medical and structural support to ensure their captain’s return to peak condition.

For now, the focus shifts from the pitch to recovery, with the club and supporters united in hoping their captain can make a strong comeback next season.

_{Featured Image Credit: Pixabay / Compi-Service, Pixabay / jorono}