Borussia Dortmund leave captain out of Champions League squad

Borussia Dortmund have announced their squad for the inaugural league phase of the Champions League, omitting captain Emre Can. The German club revealed the final team shortly after notifying UEFA. The 24-man squad was compiled despite Can's recent return from injury, as he is still healing from a torn ACL he sustained in the spring.

Can's absence was unexpected, as he was previously considered a possible starter later in the season. Other notable absences include new signings Giannis Konstantelias and Jefferson Lerma, who are both recovering from ACL injuries themselves. Konstantelias recently underwent reconstructive surgery and is expected to undergo a lengthy recovery period, while Lerma's injury history is unknown.

Borussia Dortmund coach Niko Kovac emphasized the need for patience with Lerma as he adjusts to life in Germany following his transfer from Ecuadorian side Independiente. Kovac stated, "He still needs time, and that’s completely normal." Borussia Dortmund can also call upon several youth players from their B list, including Mathis Albert, Samuele Inacio, Luca Reggiani, Miguel Adje, and Jan Luca Riedl.