Germany Defender Nico Schlotterbeck Ruled Out Of World Cup With Ankle Injury

Germany suffered a major blow at the 2026 World Cup after defender Nico Schlotterbeck was ruled out of the remainder of the tournament with an ankle injury.

Nico Schlotterbeck, a 26-year-old centre-back sustained the injury during Germany’s 2-1 win over the Ivory Coast on Saturday. He was forced off at half-time and replaced by Antonio Rudiger.

A statement from Germany confirmed that Schlotterbeck had “suffered an injury to the medial collateral ligament in his left ankle” and would be sidelined for several months.

Despite the setback, the Borussia Dortmund defender will remain with the squad in the United States for the time being.

Germany had already secured top spot in Group E and booked their place in the last 32 before Thursday’s final group-stage match against Ecuador. With the tournament already underway, they are unable to call up a replacement.

Schlotterbeck had made an impressive start to the World Cup, playing the full 90 minutes in Germany’s opening 7-1 win over Curacao and scoring his country’s second goal.

Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann expressed his disappointment at losing one of his key defenders.

“Schlotti will be greatly missed on the pitch as an outstanding defender, especially his excellent build-up play,” said Nagelsmann.

“It could have been his World Cup. Yesterday, we all tried to lift his spirits – fortunately, he is a very positive character who is already looking ahead again.

“It is a very positive sign that he will initially remain here within the team, because he also has an influence off the pitch.”

Germany’s remaining central defensive options include Jonathan Tah, Rudiger, Waldemar Anton and Malick Thiaw of Newcastle United.

The injury is also a setback for Schlotterbeck personally after months of speculation over his future. The defender ended transfer rumours in April by signing a new deal with Borussia Dortmund that keeps him at the club until 2031.