Borussia Dortmund announced on Saturday that they have extended the contract of captain Emre Can. The new contract extends the original summer expiry date by one year, until June 30, 2027.

According to Bild, Can's actual salary after the contract extension will be lower than the previously estimated 8.5 million euros.

The 32-year-old Can primarily plays as a defensive midfielder, but can also play as a center-back when necessary. He previously played for Bayern Munich, Bayer Leverkusen, Liverpool, and Juventus, before joining Borussia Dortmund on a loan-to-buy deal in January 2020.

To date, Can has made 220 appearances for Borussia Dortmund, scoring 23 goals and providing 12 assists. His proudest achievement at Dortmund is undoubtedly winning the German Cup with the team in 2021.

Earlier this month, Can suffered a torn anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee during a match against Bayern Munich. He was confirmed to be out for the season and successfully underwent corrective surgery last week. Despite this, Borussia Dortmund expressed their absolute trust in Can by extending his contract.

Regarding the decision to renew Emre Can's contract, Dortmund's sporting general manager, Lars Ricken, explained: "Emre is our captain and an absolute role model. He is a leader who leads by example and always puts the team's interests first. We sent a message of support to him immediately after his serious injury because he is a key member of Dortmund. The most important thing for Emre right now is to focus on his recovery, and we look forward to his return to the field soon."

Dortmund sporting director Sebastian Kehl added: “Emre is an indispensable member of our team, both on and off the pitch. We understand his importance in the dressing room and the wealth of experience he brings to the team. We will fully support his recovery and are confident that he will return in top form.”

Can himself said: "I am very happy to stay at Dortmund. Dortmund is a special club, and I sincerely thank everyone for their support. My goal is to recover as soon as possible, return to the field and fight alongside my teammates to win honors for the club."

Image source: Internet/Borussia Dortmund official website