‘It was a huge mistake’ - Nigerian-born German star Karim Adeyemi apologises for possession of illegal weapons

The news broke during the recent international break, leading to Adeyemi's absence from Germany's 6-0 World Cup qualifying victory over Slovakia. 

Both the German Football Federation (DFB) and Borussia Dortmund were reportedly unaware of the legal proceedings until they were leaked to the media.

German prosecutors charged Adeyemi for possessing the weapons, which are strictly prohibited without a permit. 

The winger took to Instagram to address the situation, admitting his error in judgment and apologised for his mistake.

"At the beginning of 2024, out of carelessness and without really thinking about what I was doing, I ordered a so-called ‘mystery box’ on the internet," Adeyemi wrote. 

"It contained items that are not permitted under weapons legislation. Many months later, the package was delivered and ended up unopened at the police station."

"Nevertheless, it was a huge mistake. One that I am very sorry about, that cost me dearly and that I deeply regret. 

“I know that I am in the public eye and have a role model function. I did not live up to that... I have learned more from this than I can put into words. And I promise you that I will avoid such mistakes in the future."

Dortmund's managing director, Lars Ricken, also defended the player. "We naturally took the matter very seriously and have since been able to speak with Karim Adeyemi at length," Ricken told Sky Sport.

"He deeply regrets his mistake. However, it must also be taken into account that he had to pay a hefty fine, no one was harmed, and the player continues to be considered to have no criminal record."