Konstantinos Karetsas made an immediate impression on Borussia Dortmund supporters by turning up at the Olympia-Grill in Kamen-Methler just hours after completing his move from Gent. The 18-year-old spent around an hour meeting fans, signing autographs, posing for photos and chatting with supporters while also helping hand out complimentary food.
It was the kind of public gesture that tends to resonate quickly with a crowd. In the middle of a 34°C day, Karetsas did not hide away after his transfer was confirmed. Instead, he put himself straight in front of the Dortmund faithful and gave them a first look at a player who already seems ready to embrace the occasion.
A quick connection with the Dortmund support
The appearance in Kamen-Methler was notable not only because it came so soon after signing, but because it felt deliberate. Karetsas was not simply passing through. He spent time with supporters, and the event reportedly included around 250 complimentary meals being handed out at the Olympia-Grill.
That sort of interaction matters at a club like Borussia Dortmund, where the bond between players and fans is always part of the story. It also fits the early sense around Karetsas, who is already being viewed as an exciting addition. As explained in Why Borussia Dortmund see Konstantinos Karetsas as the heir to Julian Brandt, there is growing expectation around what he can bring on and off the pitch.
Training with Niko Kovač is next
After the restaurant appearance, Karetsas returned to Dortmund for further introductory meetings. Soon after the club's return from its pre-season tour of Japan on Sunday, he will begin training with Niko Kovač's squad.
For Dortmund, that means the next stage is less about the welcome and more about integration. For Karetsas, it means the first real test begins when the sessions start and the football takes over from the introductions.
