Schlotterbeck faces World Cup blow: Will injury affect his BVB future? | OneFootball

Nico Schlotterbeck is at risk of missing the rest of the World Cup after suffering an ankle injury. The diagnosis could also have implications for his future at Borussia Dortmund.

The German national team secured top spot in their group early at the World Cup. However, the 2-1 win over Ivory Coast was overshadowed by Nico Schlotterbeck’s injury. The Borussia Dortmund center-back twisted his left ankle in the opening stages of the match and left the pitch injured at half-time.

Germany head coach Julian Nagelsmann expressed concern immediately after the match. “There is suspicion of a ligament injury for Nico. It doesn’t look good,” the national team coach said after the final whistle. According to BILD, Schlotterbeck underwent an initial examination at the stadium. Doctors reportedly fear that the international may have torn a ligament in his ankle.

An MRI scan is now expected to provide final clarity on the severity of the injury. If the suspicion is confirmed, the World Cup would likely be over early for the Dortmund defender. For the Germany squad, the loss of the 26-year-old would be a major blow. Schlotterbeck is currently one of the regular starters in central defence and forms the preferred partnership there alongside Jonathan Tah.

The future of BVB star Schlotterbeck remains uncertain

There was still a small glimmer of hope, according to BILD. Upon the DFB team’s arrival in Winston-Salem, Schlotterbeck was apparently able to walk down the aircraft stairs without any visible limp. He was also seen laughing in the company of his family. Whether that actually says anything about the real diagnosis, however, remains unclear.

Photo: IMAGO

The injury is also sensitive in light of Schlotterbeck’s future at Borussia Dortmund. According to BILD, his contract, which was only recently extended until 2031, includes a release clause. Selected top clubs are reportedly able to sign the defender for €50 to €60 million. Real Madrid is repeatedly mentioned as one of the clubs that could benefit from this arrangement.

For BVB, the injury could therefore be significant in more than one way. On the one hand, they could be facing a longer absence of a key player; on the other, the enforced break could put off potential suitors. A strong World Cup in particular could have further strengthened Schlotterbeck’s position on the international transfer market.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇩🇪 here.