Germany defender Nico Schlotterbeck ruled out of 2026 World Cup
Germany suffered a significant setback at the 2026 World Cup after centre‑back Nico Schlotterbeck was forced to withdraw from the tournament with an ankle injury.
The 26‑year‑old Borussia Dortmund player sustained the damage during Germany’s 2‑1 victory over Ivory Coast on Saturday. He was taken off at half‑time and replaced by Antonio Rüdiger.
A statement from the German Football Association confirmed that Schlotterbeck had “suffered an injury to the medial collateral ligament in his left ankle” and would be unavailable for several months.
Despite the blow, the defender will remain with the squad in the United States for the time being, continuing to support the team off the pitch.
Germany had already secured top spot in Group E and booked a place in the last 32 before the final group‑stage match against Ecuador. Because the tournament is already underway, the team cannot call up a replacement for Schlotterbeck.
Prior to the injury, Schlotterbeck had made an impressive start to the World Cup, playing the full 90 minutes in Germany’s opening 7‑1 win over Curaçao and scoring the team’s second goal.
Head coach Julian Nagelsmann expressed his disappointment at losing a key defensive piece.
“Schlotti will be greatly missed on the pitch as an outstanding defender, especially his excellent build‑up play.”
Julian Nagelsmann
Nagelsmann added that the squad had tried to lift Schlotterbeck’s spirits after the setback, noting his positive attitude and eagerness to look ahead.
“It is a very positive sign that he will initially remain here within the team, because he also has an influence off the pitch,” the coach said.
Germany’s remaining central defensive options now include Jonathan Tah, Antonio Rüdiger, Waldemar Anton, and Malick Thiaw of Newcastle United.
The injury also represents a personal setback for Schlotterbeck, who had recently silenced transfer speculation by signing a new long‑term contract with Borussia Dortmund that runs until 2031.
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