Germany have suffered a major setback after defender Nico Schlotterbeck was ruled out of the rest of the World Cup with an ankle injury.
The German Football Association confirmed on Monday that the centre back will be out for several months after tearing a ligament in his left ankle during Germany’s 2-1 win over Ivory Coast in Group E on Saturday.
Schlotterbeck picked up the injury in the first half and could not continue. Antonio Rudiger replaced him after the break. Medical tests carried out on Sunday later confirmed the extent of the damage.
“Schlotterbeck suffered an injury to the medial collateral ligament in his left ankle … and will be out for several months. The defender of German runners-up Borussia Dortmund will, for the time being, remain with the team in the USA,” the team said in a statement.
Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann cannot bring in a replacement because the tournament is already under way.
“Schlotti will be greatly missed on the pitch as an outstanding defender, especially his excellent build-up play,” Nagelsmann said.
“It could have been his World Cup. Yesterday, we all tried to lift his spirits – fortunately, he is a very positive character who is already looking ahead again.”
Nagelsmann also welcomed Schlotterbeck’s decision to stay with the squad.
“It is a very positive sign that he will initially remain here within the team, because he also has an influence off the pitch. Despite his absence, we are still very well positioned in central defence for the World Cup with Jonathan Tah, Antonio Rudiger, Waldemar Anton and Malick Thiaw,” the coach said.
Germany have already secured first place in Group E and booked a place in the knockout stage for the first time since 2014. They will face Ecuador in their final group match on Thursday.
