Germany's World Cup hopes have taken a serious hit. Nico Schlotterbeck, the Borussia Dortmund center-back, tore his left ankle ligament during a Group E match against Ivory Coast on June 20.
The 26-year-old is expected to miss at least eight weeks, effectively ending his tournament participation. The injury occurred early in the first half when Schlotterbeck collided with Ivory Coast’s Amad Diallo. Although he continued playing, he was substituted at halftime for Antonio Rudiger.
Medical assessments suggest severe ligament damage, prompting concerns from coach Julian Nagelsmann about Schlotterbeck's condition.
This latest setback adds to Schlotterbeck's history of injuries, which interrupted his 2024/25 season with Borussia Dortmund. His absence places significant pressure on Germany's defensive integrity as they navigate Group E in the tournament.
The partnership he formed with Rudiger provided stability, but without Schlotterbeck, they face a daunting challenge ahead.