Who replaces Nico Schlotterbeck? Germany’s three options after World Cup blow | OneFootball

Germany's victory over Ivory Coast was a bittersweet one. While the team answered questions about its ability to fight back against a well-organised opponent, it also lost one of its most important players.

“I still need some time to process everything and talk about it at a later point,” the defender wrote underneath a post.

The Borussia Dortmund defender had become one of the first names on Julian Nagelsmann’s team sheet. His left-footed distribution, composure in possession and ability to build attacks from the back made him a key figure in Germany’s system.

“Schlotti will be greatly missed on the pitch as an outstanding defender, especially for his excellent build-up play. This could have been his World Cup,” said Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann.

Ever since the 2024 EUROS, Schlotterbeck has missed just three Germany matches outside of injury absences, underlining his importance to the national team.

That begs the question: how are Germany planning to replace him for the remainder of the World Cup?

"Despite his absence, we are still very well covered at centre-back with Jonathan Tah, Antonio Rüdiger, Waldemar Anton and Malick Thiaw for the World Cup”, said the DFB coach.

So who is most likely to replace Schlotterbeck? Here are the leading candidates.

3 players to replace Nico Schlotterbeck

Antonio Rüdiger

The most straightforward solution would be a return to Germany’s Euro 2024 centre-back partnership of Jonathan Tah and Antonio Rüdiger.

The pair developed a strong understanding during the tournament and have spoken highly of one another.

“The progress Jona has made over the last two or three years commands a huge amount of respect. His season with Bayern was outstanding as well. He’s the new leader,” Rüdiger said at a press conference.

To which Tah replied: "It's quite special to hear that praise from him. He is a great player who has achieved a lot in his career."

Rüdiger was also Nagelsmann’s first choice off the bench against Ivory Coast after Schlotterbeck’s injury.

There are, however, concerns. The Real Madrid defender struggled with injuries last season (only 18 appearances in La Liga) and was unable to maintain his highest level consistently, especially in the Champions League and against the best opponents. Unlike Schlotterbeck, the 33-year-old is not a natural playmaker from deep, meaning more responsibility in possession would likely fall on Tah.

Still, with 84 Germany caps and extensive tournament experience, Rüdiger remains the favourite to step into the starting XI.

Schlotterbeck replacement barometer: 85%

Waldemar Anton

Schlotterbeck’s Borussia Dortmund teammate offers a dependable alternative.

Anton has established himself as one of Germany’s most reliable defenders through his performances for Stuttgart and Dortmund, combining leadership with defensive consistency. The 29-year-old enjoyed another strong club season and was a regular starter throughout the campaign.

His biggest asset is familiarity. Anton already has an established understanding with several members of the Germany squad, especially with club teammate Felix Nmecha, who has played a great World Cup this far, and rarely makes costly mistakes.

The main question is whether he has enough experience at international level. He has earned just 14 caps and has yet to fully convince on the biggest stages.

While he would be a safe option, it would still be somewhat surprising if Nagelsmann turned to Anton ahead of the other candidates.

Schlotterbeck replacement barometer: 15%

Malick Thiaw

Thiaw is the outsider, but perhaps the most intriguing option.

The 24-year-old has only five international caps to his name, yet his development over the past season has been remarkable. Following his move from AC Milan to Newcastle United, he has emerged as one of Germany’s most promising centre-backs.

What he lacks in experience, he compensates for with pace, confidence and physical presence - especially in attack. Thiaw poses a significant threat from set pieces, having scored four Premier League goals this season, which made him one of the most dangerous defenders in the world's best league.

In some respects, he is the closest stylistic match to Schlotterbeck. Like the Dortmund defender, he can influence games at both ends of the pitch and provides an extra weapon from dead-ball situations.

Thiaw may not be the most likely choice, but his outstanding club form gives him a genuine chance of breaking into the starting XI on football’s biggest stage.

Schlotterbeck replacement barometer: 50%