Overview
- Karius spoke to Funke Mediengruppe in reporting published July 23–24, 2026 and said he went through a severe mental-health crisis after the 2018 Champions League final.
- He described the 2018 final as a turning point, saying two high-profile mistakes and a concussion diagnosed after the match precipitated a career 'crash' and loss of joy in the game.
- The keeper said early professional help, including sessions with a mental-health coach, did not immediately lift him and that he 'somehow managed to fight his way out' on his own.
- Sportingly, Karius rebuilt his career after spells at Beşiktaş, Union Berlin and Newcastle, signing for Schalke in January 2025 and helping the club win promotion in May 2026 with a strong season.
- By speaking openly now, Karius highlights the stigma players face when seeking help and could prompt greater attention to concussion aftercare and mental-health support in elite football.