Borussia Dortmund manager Niko Kovac has confirmed that Karim Adeyemi will not face any sporting punishment after the winger received a legal fine for attempting to illegally possess a weapon.
Kovac said the club held internal discussions with the Germany international and concluded that Adeyemi would only be required to complete community service, with no suspension or removal from the squad.
“It’s no reason for me to ban him for the next few weeks,” Kovac said during Thursday’s press conference. “I’m not his father, but his coach. People should put things into proper perspective.”
Adeyemi reportedly purchased an online “mystery box” early in 2024 without knowing it contained items prohibited under Germany’s weapons law. The package was delivered months later, and although it remained unopened, police involvement led to a significant fine.
Kovac emphasized that the club is fully focused on the Bundesliga and will continue to support the 22-year-old attacker.
“Everything has been said about it. The focus is on the Bundesliga. He will get our full support,” he added.
Dortmund face VfB Stuttgart on Saturday, a team that has beaten them four straight times in the league.
“I understand people are talking about this now,” Kovac said. “So we should go and win the game.”
