Germany have already booked their place in the World Cup finals, but the four-time champions suffered a big blow following their late win against Ivory Coast.
Nico Schlotterbeck injured during Germany’s match against Ivory Coast (Image: Getty Images)
Germany’s defender Nico Schlotterbeck will miss the remainder of the World Cup with an ankle injury. The Borussia Dortmund defender was named in coach Julian Naglesmann’s 26-man squad for the tournament.
Schlotterbeck, 26, has started twice at the World Cup and even found the back of the net in Germany’s remarkable 7-1 win over Curaçao. However, he suffered an injury in the second half of the 2-1 win against Ivory Coast, ending the tournament.
Germany national team coach Julian Nagelsmann said, “We will be very sad that Schlotti is not on the pitch.” “He is an outstanding defender and his ability to play out from the back is exceptional. He could have played a big role in this World Cup.”
“Everyone tried to lift his spirits yesterday, but fortunately he is a very positive person and is already looking ahead. The fact that he is staying here with the team for now is a great gesture, because he has an influence off the pitch as well.”
Borussia Dortmund sporting director Lars Ricken added: “We are very sorry for Nico. He was in really good form and was an integral part of our national team’s starting lineup.”
“But Nico showed last year that he can come back from injury even stronger and he will do the same this time. We are confident of that.”
Germany are unable to replace Schlotterbeck in their squad due to FIFA regulations, but Antonio Rudiger, who was his substitute against Ivory Coast, appears set to earn a place in the starting XI. Schlotterbeck had won 29 caps for his country before his injury.
Nico Schlotterbeck expected to miss remaining World Cup matches (Image: Getty Images)
Liverpool may have to think about their interest due to the defender’s injury. Schlotterbeck has been linked with a move to Anfield as the Reds look for a replacement for Ibrahima Konate, who moved to Real Madrid after his contract on Merseyside expires.
Dortmund are looking to keep the German in the Bundesliga after agreeing a new five-year contract in April, which would see him remain at the club until 2031.
Schlotterbeck started his professional career with Freiburg and moved to Dortmund in 2022. He has made 161 appearances for the club so far, scoring 11 goals, five of which came last season.
In the meantime, Germany will continue to focus on World Cup activities without him. Coach Nagelsmann’s team has already qualified for the last 32 and will face Ecuador in their final group match.
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