Germany have dealt with a major setback as Nico Schlotterbeck has been ruled out for the rest of the FIFA World Cup

Germany’s 2026 World Cup campaign suffered a major setback after defender Nico Schlotterbeck was ruled out for the rest of the tournament and months after with a left ankle injury.

Borussia Dortmund’s centre-back suffered an injury during the Germany’s 2-1 win over Ivory Coast on Saturday, a result that saw the four-time champions advance to the knockout stage with group play.

Schlotterbeck started both of Germany’s opening games at the tournament and was expected to play a key role as Julian Nagelsmann’s side sought a fifth World Cup title.

However, tests performed at Germany’s team camp in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, confirmed damage to the medial ligament in his left ankle, effectively ending his participation in the competition.

NAGELSMANN BACK THE DEPTH OF THE DEFENSE OF GERMANY

The injury is a significant blow for Germany given Schlotterbeck’s importance to the team’s defensive structure and build-up play. The 26-year-old has established himself as one of Germany’s most reliable defenders in recent years, combining strong defensive instincts with the ability to get on the ball from the back.

German coach Julian Nagelsmann admitted that the loss was hard to bear. “We will greatly miss Schlotti on the pitch as an excellent defender, especially his brilliant ability to build play from the back,” Nagelsmann said. “It could have been his World Cup.

The German coach also revealed that players and staff have rallied around Schlotterbeck following the diagnosis. Nagelsmann praised the defender’s attitude, noting that he had already started to look ahead, despite being disappointed to miss the rest of the tournament.

Schlotterbeck will remain with the team during the World Cup to boost team morale. Nagelsmann welcomed the decision and highlighted the defender’s influence off the pitch.

“It’s a great sign that he’s staying in the team for now because he’s making an impact off the pitch as well,” said the German boss.

Despite the setback, Nagelsmann remains confident in Germany’s defensive capabilities.

“Despite his absence, we are still very well equipped at centre-back for the World Cup with Jonathan Tah, Antonio Rdiger, Waldemar Anton and Malick Thiaw,” added Nagelsmann.

Germany’s victory over Ivory Coast saw them progress to the knockout stages and secure top spot in Group E ahead of their final group stage match against Ecuador in East Rutherford, New Jersey on Thursday 25 June.

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Issued by:

sabyasachi chowdhury

Published on:

22 Jun 2026 19:49 IST