GERMANY defender Nico Schlotterbeck is out of the World Cup after picking up an ankle blow against Ivory Coast.
The star, 26, went down in the first half after being challenged by Man United winger .
Germany star Nico Schlotterbeck has been ruled out of the World Cup after an ankle injury Credit: EPA
The Borussia Dortmund has torn a ligament in his ankle and faces several months out Credit: Getty
Schlotterbeck carried on until half time but didn’t come out for the second half.
Manager replaced him with centre-back for the rest of the game, which Germany won 2-1 .
His boss gave a gloomy outlook for his condition after full time.
Nagelsmann said: “It’s something with his ligament. It definitely doesn’t look good, unfortunately.”
And it’s now been confirmed Schlotterbeck has torn a ligament in his ankle, which will rule him out for several months.
Schlotterbeck had started Germany’s first two group games against and alongside Jonathan Tah.
But now ex-Chelsea star Rudiger looks set to replace him for the remainder of the tournament.
Germany aren’t allowed to call an extra player up now that the World Cup has begun.
Former Chelsea star Antonio Rudiger will replace him for the rest of the tournament Credit: EPA
Teams are only allowed to bring in new players up to 24 hours before the first match, but Rudiger will step in as Germany’s next strongest defensive star.
Schlotterbeck has picked up 29 caps for Germany since making his debut in 2022.
He started his career at Freiburg in 2018 before joining current team Dortmund four years later.
Rudiger is one of Germany’s most experienced faces after playing 84 times for his country.
He has won two titles during his career and one league title with Real Madrid.
Germany currently top their World Cup Group E with six points from their first two games.
Their win over Ivory Coast confirmed their place in the knockouts after Deniz Undav’s second half brace helped them come from behind.
Their final group game will be against on June 25, which could give Nagelsmann a chance to rotate with their progression already secure.
Eze Chidiebere Paul
I'm dedicated to creating high-quality content that informs, inspires, and delights. If you have any questions or suggestions, don't hesitate to get in touch. Happy reading!
