Adeyemi Breaks Silence on 450k Fine Over Weapons Possession; Can Returns as Dortmund Shape Bundesliga Hopes

Adeyemi's Fine and Dortmund's Response

Karim Adeyemi, Borussia Dortmund's dynamic winger, has broken his silence after receiving a hefty fine for illegal possession of weapons. The club's managing director Lars Ricken spoke about how the issue is being handled and the steps taken by the team.

Earlier on Wednesday, ahead of training, Ricken met with sporting director Sebastian Kehl and Adeyemi to address the headlines surrounding the international star.

The 23-year-old was ordered to pay a 450,000-euro fine for weapon possession that violated the law.

The Mystery Box Admission and Remorse

Ricken defended Adeyemi, telling Sky Sports that the club took the matter seriously, spoke with Karim in detail about his conduct, and that he is deeply sorry for the error. He noted that no one was hurt, and that the player still has no criminal record, though he acknowledged the heavy fine. The club added that they trust him to adhere to his commitments.

Adeyemi himself described the incident surrounding what he called a Mystery Box online. He explained, Youve probably seen the headlines about me in the last few days. In early 2024, out of impulse and without really thinking what I was doing, I ordered what is called the Mystery Box online. It also contained items illegal under weapon laws. After months, the package was delivered and happened to be unopened by the police. He admitted it was a grave mistake and expressed deep regret, adding that he understands the responsibility of being a role model and promised to avoid such errors in the future.

He has appeared in 14 matches across all competitions for Dortmund this season, scoring 3 goals and providing 3 assists.

Can's Return and Dortmund's Outlook

Captain Emre Can returned to action after a near six-month layoff due to injury. In Dortmund's away game at Manchester City in the Champions League, he came on as a late substitute, and three days later started against Hamburg, winning a high share of his duels. In an interview with Dortmund TV, Can spoke about the mental and physical recovery, naming the medical team, rehab coaches, and teammates who supported him, including Nico Schlotterbeck and Jude Bellingham as important influences.

Dortmund sit third in the Bundesliga with 21 points from 10 rounds: 6 wins, 3 draws, 1 loss. They have scored 16 and conceded 7, and sit one point behind Leipzig and seven behind leaders Bayern Munich. With the international break behind them, Dortmund host Stuttgart on Saturday in the league and Villarreal next Tuesday in the Champions League.

Punchlines: If Adeyemi ever orders a Mystery Box again, let’s hope it is full of goals and not trouble. In football as in comedy, the best weapons are your timing and a wicked left foot, not a late-night online shopping spree.