Germany's victory over Ivory Coast came at a significant cost. Central defender Nico Schlotterbeck has been ruled out of the remainder of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after medical examinations confirmed a serious ankle injury.
The news is a major setback for Julian Nagelsmann's side as they prepare for the knockout stages.
Injury Concern During Ivory Coast Clash
The Borussia Dortmund defender picked up the injury during Germany's 2-1 win over Ivory Coast in Group E.
Although Schlotterbeck managed to finish the first half, he was unable to continue after the break and was replaced before the second period got underway.
Following the match, Nagelsmann admitted the situation looked concerning, with the coaching staff awaiting the results of further medical tests.
Worst Fears Confirmed
Those examinations have now delivered bad news.
According to reports from Germany, an MRI scan revealed ligament damage in Schlotterbeck's left ankle. The injury is expected to keep the 26-year-old sidelined for at least two months, ending any hope of a return before the conclusion of the tournament.
As a result, Germany will have to continue their World Cup campaign without one of their most important defensive players.
Rudiger Set for Bigger Role
The injury could force Nagelsmann into a defensive reshuffle ahead of the knockout rounds.
Antonio Rudiger replaced Schlotterbeck during the Ivory Coast match and is now expected to move into the starting lineup. The most likely solution is for the Real Madrid defender to partner Jonathan Tah in central defense.
The pair have considerable international experience and are expected to become Germany's first-choice partnership for the remainder of the competition.
Transfer Plans Could Be Affected
The timing of the injury is particularly unfortunate for Schlotterbeck.
The defender has recently been linked with a potential move to Real Madrid, with several reports suggesting the Spanish giants have been monitoring his situation closely. Previous reports also claimed that a €50 million release clause exists in his Borussia Dortmund contract.
Whether the injury changes Madrid's transfer strategy remains unclear, but it adds uncertainty to what was shaping up to be a pivotal summer for the German international.
Focus Turns to Knockout Stage
Despite the setback, Germany remain in a strong position at the tournament.
Nagelsmann's team have already secured qualification for the knockout rounds and will finish their group-stage campaign against Ecuador. The final match will determine Germany's position in the standings and could influence their path through the knockout bracket.
For Schlotterbeck, however, the World Cup journey is already over.