Germany defender Nico Schlotterbeck ruled out of World Cup 2026

Germany centre‑back Nico Schlotterbeck, 26, sustained a left ankle ligament rupture while playing in the Group E win over Ivory Coast. The injury was diagnosed as a torn medial collateral ligament, forcing him to miss the remainder of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Schlotterbeck, a Borussia Dortmund player, will stay in the United States with the squad for treatment. Coach Julian Nagelsmann said the team still has options in central defence, naming Jonathan Tah, Antonio Rudiger, Waldemar Anton and Malik Tillmann as replacements. Despite the loss, Germany retained first place in Group E and will complete its group stage against Ecuador before the knockout rounds.

The incident highlights Germany’s depth in defence but removes a key player from the knockout push, with the team looking to maintain its strong performance in the tournament.