“A top bloke”: ex-BVB pro hails Emre Can | OneFootball

Borussia Dortmund captain Emre Can is receiving plenty of praise from a former teammate. Former BVB pro Antonios Papadopoulos especially highlights the Germany international’s human side.

Antonios Papadopoulos spoke with great respect about his former teammate Emre Can. In an interview with YouTuber Cubanito, the former Borussia Dortmund player praised the captain of the Black and Yellows not only for his footballing ability, but above all for his character.

From 2021 to 2024, the two were under contract together in Dortmund. One moment that especially stayed with Papadopoulos was a gesture from the Germany international during a difficult period. Because of minor muscular problems, Can immediately offered support. “He was there and said, ‘Hey, there’s a physio,’” the centre-back recalled.

For the current FC Lugano player, that was more than just a casual act of help between teammates. The way Can dealt with his fellow players in particular left a lasting impression on him. “What inspired me was, of course, also his human side,” Papadopoulos explained.

New BVB contract: Papadopoulos happy for Can

The 26-year-old also showed great respect for BVB’s decision to extend Can’s contract despite his cruciate ligament injury. For Papadopoulos, it was a well-deserved sign of appreciation. “I’m also very happy that he extended his contract even though he was injured,” he said. He also remains in regular contact with some former teammates from Dortmund.

Photo: IMAGO

Papadopoulos also had clear praise for the midfielder’s footballing qualities. “We don’t even need to talk about his footballing ability. Great player,” emphasized the German-Greek. Above all, though, he said he admired the fact that Can has remained grounded despite his career.

That attitude has also become an important benchmark for him personally. “No matter what you’ve achieved or what you bring to the table, in the end you always have to be decent,” Papadopoulos explained. Values such as respect and humility are crucial to him — and that is exactly what Can embodied in Dortmund.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇩🇪 here.