Germany suffer blow as Schlotterbeck is ruled out

June 22, 2026 / 9:19 PM

Sharjah 24 – AFP: The German Football Association (DFB) has announced that defender Nico Schlotterbeck will miss the remainder of the 2026 World Cup due to a severe ankle injury that is expected to sideline him for several months. Medical examinations confirmed a ligament tear in his left ankle, which he sustained during Germany’s 2-1 victory over Ivory Coast on Saturday. The 26-year-old Borussia Dortmund center-back had established himself as a vital component of Germany's backline, partnering with Jonathan Tah.

Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann described Schlotterbeck's sudden departure as a major setback, lamenting that this tournament "could have been his." Before the injury, the defender—who has earned 29 caps—had just scored his first international goal during the competition.

Schlotterbeck's absence will force defensive adjustments for Germany. Real Madrid's Antonio Rüdiger is heavily tipped to return to the starting lineup, while Waldemar Anton and Malick Thiaw remain strong options for Nagelsmann. Having already secured a spot in the round of 32 following two consecutive victories, Germany will close out its group stage campaign against Ecuador.