Injured captain Emre Can renews Dortmund contract for another season

Can, 32, came to Dortmund in January 2020 from Italy's Juventus for €25 million ($28.8 million) and has played 220 games for them, scoring 23 goals and setting up another 12. He won the German Cup in 2021 and has been team captain since 2023.

“After more than six years at this club, I can safely say that I’m a Borussia man through and through. I’m extremely proud to be able to play for this club,” Can said.

Managing director for sport Lars Ricken said: "Emre is our captain and a true role model. He leads by example and always puts the team first."

German international Can is sidelined for many months with a cruciate knee ligament tear he sustained last month in the Bundesliga topper against Bayern Munich.

Dortmund officials had signalled in the aftermath of the injury that they would want to renew his contract beyond summer in an act of appreciation and solidarity.

"My aim is to get back to full fitness as soon as possible, to be back on the pitch with my teammates, and to help the club succeed," Can pledged.

Sporting director Sebastian Kehl added: "Emre is a key figure for us both on and off the pitch. We recognise his importance in the dressing room and the experience he brings to our team.

"We will be right there supporting him on his road to a comeback and have every confidence that he will return in top form,” he said.