Overview
- Nico Schlotterbeck tore ligaments in his left ankle during Germany’s match with Ivory Coast and was formally ruled out of the World Cup, removing him from the tournament roster.
- Schlotterbeck posted on Instagram on Wednesday saying he felt “disappointed, empty” and promising to work to return stronger while acknowledging a long recovery ahead.
- His absence is tactically significant because he was Germany’s only left-footed central defender and played a key role in the team’s build-up play, forcing coach Julian Nagelsmann to adjust plans.
- In April he signed a long-term Borussia Dortmund contract through 2031 that reportedly includes an exit clause and had attracted interest from clubs such as Real Madrid, but the new injury makes a summer move unlikely for now.
- The injury follows a meniscus layoff last year, so Schlotterbeck faces another prolonged rehab that will shape Dortmund’s and Germany’s short-term planning and influence any transfer decisions this summer.