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[SPORTS] · Germany · 77 sources

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Germany defender Nico Schlotterbeck ruled out of World Cup 2026

Nico Schlotterbeck, 26‑year‑old centre‑back for Borussia Dortmund, suffered a left‑ankle ligament/band rupture in Germany’s 2‑1 group‑stage win over the Ivory Coast on 20 June 2026. The injury forces him to miss the remainder of the tournament and he will remain with the squad in the United States. Coach Julian Nagelsmann said, “Schlotti will miss us on the pitch as an outstanding defender, especially his excellent play‑building,” adding that the player “could have had his World Cup.” Under FIFA rules no out‑field player can be replaced after the 24‑hour deadline, so Germany must continue without him. The DFB confirmed the diagnosis and listed the defensive options: Antonio Rüdiger is expected to start alongside Jonathan Tah, with Waldemar Anton and Malick Thiaw also available. The loss of Germany’s only left‑footed central defender is viewed as a significant setback for the team’s tactical balance.

Sources

3 months ago
Schreck für Schlotterbeck [www.kurierverlag.de]
3 months ago
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3 months ago