WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. (AP) – Germany defender Nico Schlotterbeck injured his left ankle in Saturday’s 2-1 win over Ivory Coast and has been ruled out for the remainder of the World Cup and beyond.
The German soccer federation announced Monday that tests conducted on Sunday after returning to team camp in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, revealed that Schlotterbeck, who had started Germany’s opening two games of the tournament, had torn the medial ligament in his ankle and will be out for several months.
Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann said: “We are very disappointed to see Schlotti on the field as an outstanding defender, especially with his great ability to organize plays from the back.” “Maybe it was his World Cup. Yesterday we all tried to cheer him up. Fortunately, he is a very positive person and is already looking ahead.”
Schlotterbeck, who plays for Borussia Dortmund in the Bundesliga, was to remain with Germany for the remainder of the World Cup.
“He has an impact off the field as well, so it’s a great sign for him to stay in the team for now,” Nagelsmann said. “Despite his absence, we are well equipped at centre-back for the World Cup with Jonathan Tarr, Antonio Rudiger, Waldemar Anton and Malik Thiau.”
german Defeat Ivory Coast They sent the four-time champions into the knockout stage with a comfortable group match. Germany are already assured of finishing first in Group E ahead of Thursday’s final group game against Ecuador in East Rutherford, New Jersey.
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