Borussia Dortmund Signs Rising Star Konstantinos Karetsas from Genk

Borussia Dortmund Signs Rising Star Konstantinos Karetsas from Genk

Stand: 27.07.2026 • 22:12 Uhr Borussia Dortmund has secured the services of promising Greek midfielder Konstantinos Karetsas from KRC Genk, reportedly beating AC Milan to finalize the deal. The 18-year-old talent is expected to take on the role previously held by Julian Brandt, who departed Dortmund for new challenges.

By Michael Buchartz

Karetsas, who has been a standout player in Belgium, signed a five-year contract with Dortmund that extends until 2031. The transfer fee is reported to be over 30 million euros, raising questions about the young midfielder's potential and future impact in the Bundesliga.

A Dual Identity: Greek Roots, Belgian Development

Though Karetsas hails from Greece, he was born in Genk, Belgium, where he developed his skills through various youth teams. He made his debut in the Belgian second division at just 15 years old, where he quickly showcased his talent by assisting a goal in his first match.

In the spring of 2025, Karetsas opted to represent Greece at the international level, despite interest from the Belgian Football Association. Since then, he has played ten matches for the Greek national team, scoring three goals. This decision underscored his commitment to pursuing a unique footballing journey, despite the allure of playing for a nation with stars like Youri Tielemans and Kevin de Bruyne.

Karetsas explained his choice, stating, "This decision comes from the heart and has nothing to do with future national teams. I can now focus on writing a great story with Greece. This decision does not mean I feel any less Belgian."

A Rising Star in Belgian Football

Karetsas's market value has soared to 35 million euros, making him the most valuable player in the Belgian league. Last season, he recorded eleven assists in 29 league appearances, along with seven goal contributions in eleven Europa League matches.

During an international match last season, he was even compared to Lionel Messi, a comparison he modestly dismissed, saying, "I just want to be Konstantinos."

Filling the Void Left by Brandt

At Dortmund, Karetsas is expected to fill the void left by Julian Brandt, who had been a key player for seven years before his departure. Brandt's inconsistency had become a concern for the club, and Dortmund hopes that Karetsas will bring the creativity and flair that were sometimes lacking from Brandt’s performances.

Standing at 1.73 meters, Karetsas is not the tallest player on the pitch, but he possesses a high level of confidence. He once stated in an interview with "The Athletic": "You just have to do what comes to mind. Don’t be robotic. When you go for a dribble, leave the defender behind and take off."

A Strategic Move by Dortmund's Management

Dortmund's sporting director, Ole Book, prioritized this transfer, even opting out of the club's tour in Japan to finalize the deal in Belgium. His efforts were crucial in outmaneuvering AC Milan, a rival also interested in the young midfielder.

With this acquisition, Dortmund fans are hopeful that Karetsas will bring his magic to the black and yellow colors, continuing to develop into the player many believe he can become.

Our sources:

• transfermarkt.de
• The Athletic
• UEFA-Webseite
• Kicker
• Sky
• SID

Sendung: WDR.de, "Karetsas wechselt zum BVB" 27.07.2026 21:59 Uhr