Confirmed: Germany’s Schlotterbeck ruled out of World Cup with long-term injury | OneFootball

Nico Schlotterbeck has played his last game at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

After the Borussia Dortmund centre-back was forced off with an injury in Germany’s 2-1 win over Côte d’Ivoire at the weekend, it has now been confirmed that he will not be able to feature for the rest of the tournament.

Schlotterbeck has suffered a medial ligament injury in his left ankle and will be out for several months.

“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.

“Yesterday we all tried to lift him up – fortunately he is a very positive character who is already looking ahead again. It is a good sign that he will initially stay here with the team, because he also has an impact off the pitch. 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.”

With Schlotterbeck out, Antonio Rüdiger is expected to move into the starting XI alongside Jonathan Tah in central defence.