Germany have enjoyed a strong start to the 2026 World Cup. Julian Nagelsmann’s side secured victories over Curacao and Ivory Coast to book their place in the knockout stages with a game to spare.
The Germans sit at the top of Group E and have looked like one of the strongest teams in the competition so far.
However, they have now suffered a significant setback. Germany lost defender Nico Schlotterbeck during their 2-1 victory over Ivory Coast.
The Borussia Dortmund centre-back started alongside Jonathan Tah in the heart of defence and looked set to play another important role for his country.
Instead, his tournament ended early. Schlotterbeck went down in the first half after a challenge from Ivory Coast winger Amad Diallo.
Although he continued until the interval, he failed to return for the second half. Nagelsmann replaced him with Antonio Rudiger after the break. The manager immediately feared the worst.
Speaking after the match, Nagelsmann revealed that the injury involved Schlotterbeck’s ligament and admitted the outlook did not look positive.
The full extent of the problem has now emerged. Schlotterbeck suffered a torn ankle ligament The injury will keep him out for several months and has ruled him out of the remainder of the World Cup.
The 26-year-old had started Germany’s first two group matches and established himself as a key figure in Nagelsmann’s plans.
His absence leaves Germany without one of their first-choice defenders as the knockout rounds approach. The injury also creates an opportunity for Rudiger.
The former Chelsea defender replaced Schlotterbeck against Ivory Coast and now looks set to partner Tah for the rest of the tournament.
Germany cannot call up a replacement because FIFA only allows squad changes before a team’s first match. Rudiger brings significant experience to the role.
The Real Madrid defender has earned 84 international caps and enjoyed success at the highest level during his club career.
Germany will hope that experience helps fill the void left by Schlotterbeck’s absence.
Unfortunate news to start the week. 😔
Nico Schlotterbeck suffered a medial ligament injury in his left ankle during the German national team’s match against Ivory Coast.
He will be out for several months for both the DFB and Borussia Dortmund.
We’re with you, Schlotti! 💛 pic.twitter.com/qgNvSXmK6N
— Borussia Dortmund (@BlackYellow) June 22, 2026
Want to get the latest transfer news direct to your phone? Join our WhatsApp community by clicking here.
