Justin Lerma faces injury and uncertain future at Borussia Dortmund

Borussia Dortmund midfielder Justin Lerma is facing setbacks following a muscle injury sustained during a Premier League International Cup match for the U-21 side against Fulham. Club director Lars Ricken confirmed the injury, noting that the Ecuadorian player is currently unavailable, though a specific recovery timeline has not been established.

Lerma joined the German club in the summer of 2026 from Independiente del Valle for approximately four million euros. His integration into the squad has been challenging; he was recently omitted from selection by coach Niko Kovac during friendly matches. Due to intense competition in the midfield from players such as Konstantinos Karetsas, Giannis Konstantelias, and Joey Veerman, the club is considering a loan move to allow the young midfielder to gain more playing time and adapt to German football.