Germany defender Nico Schlotterbeck is ruled out of the rest of the FIFA World Cup after suffering an ankle injury during the team’s 2-1 victory over Ivory Coast. Multiple reports say the problem involves left-ankle ligament damage sustained in the Group E match in Toronto. Schlotterbeck is replaced at half-time and remains in the United States with the rest of Germany’s squad, but does not play further in the tournament, according to outlets including The Athletic and BBC Sport.
German media reports that his injury is more than a minor setback, describing torn ligaments and suggesting he faces an extended spell on the sidelines. One report notes he is expected to be out for several months. With Schlotterbeck unavailable, Germany plans to adjust its centre-back options for the remaining group fixtures. Some coverage indicates Antonio Rüdiger is expected to come into the starting lineup, potentially alongside Jonathan Tah, with Germany still preparing for the next match against Ecuador.
