Borussia Dortmund forward Karim Adeyemi is facing scrutiny following reports of a weapons charge just days before a critical World Cup qualifying match for Germany. Prosecutors have issued a penalty order against the 23-year-old athlete for possession of a brass knuckle duster and a taser, reportedly received in a TikTok “mystery box” according to Bild. The incident has prompted a response from national team manager Julian Nagelsmann, who addressed the situation ahead of Monday’s qualifying game against Slovakia.
News of a weapons charge against Borussia Dortmund forward Karim Adeyemi surfaced over the weekend, casting a shadow over the German national team. Prosecutors in Hagen confirmed a penalty order had been issued against a 23-year-old professional athlete, later identified as the soccer star, according to reports. Bild first reported the story.
During a press conference Sunday afternoon in Leipzig, national team manager Julian Nagelsmann addressed the situation, stating that the matter was “a little too big” for the team and German football at the moment, and attempted to downplay its significance. While the German Football Association (DFB) did not issue an official statement, Nagelsmann confirmed he and sporting director Rudi Völler had spoken with Adeyemi.
Nagelsmann indicated further discussion would be reserved until after Monday evening’s crucial World Cup qualifying match against Slovakia (8:45 PM in the F.A.Z. live ticker and on ZDF). A draw or win would secure Germany’s direct qualification for the 2026 World Cup in the USA, while a loss would require them to compete in playoff games. “This is an issue that requires a bit of space and time, which I don’t have as a coach before such a game,” Nagelsmann explained.
The timing of the news is particularly sensitive as Nagelsmann seeks to revitalize the national team. Despite appearing calm and confident at his former coaching post, Nagelsmann revealed that discussions in Leipzig also focused on “some fundamental things” – the team’s progress since November 2023 and what’s needed to get back on a winning track.
Nagelsmann called for more courage, self-belief, and “more commitment to each other,” emphasizing a greater willingness to support teammates and take risks. Goalkeeper Oliver Baumann echoed this sentiment, speaking about the importance of focusing on the “basics” and improving upon their performance against Luxembourg.
Regarding potential starting lineup changes, Nagelsmann expressed optimism about both Nico Schlotterbeck and Joshua Kimmich. Both players missed the match against Luxembourg due to injuries. Schlotterbeck’s foot injury is reportedly “looking good,” according to Nagelsmann. A decision on Kimmich, who suffered a capsule injury in his ankle, will be made on game day. However, Nagelsmann added, “Anyone who knows the captain knows that he doesn’t like to say no to this game,” and expects him to play.
The weapons in question – a brass knuckle duster and a taser – were reportedly contained in a “mystery box” Adeyemi ordered on TikTok. The fine of 60 daily rates at 7,500 euros would mean Adeyemi will not be considered to have a criminal record.
