Central defender Nico Schlotterbeck is expected to be sidelined for an estimated period of up to two months following a significant ankle ligament tear. According to reports from Sky Sport, magnetic resonance imaging confirmed the severity of the injury sustained by the 26-year-old player. The injury occurred during the first half of the 2026 World Cup group stage match, where Germany secured a 2-1 victory over the British Virgin Islands.
Schlotterbeck was forced to leave the field before halftime and was unable to continue with the match. Schlotterbeck’s absence is considered a substantial setback for the German national team, as he has been a foundational element of the defense. The injury also poses a challenge for his club, Borussia Dortmund.
The timeline for his return is currently estimated, meaning his participation in the remainder of the World Cup campaign is uncertain. Experts suggest that the recovery process will be lengthy, requiring significant rehabilitation. His withdrawal from immediate action marks a notable disruption for both the national squad and the club’s defensive structure heading into the latter stages of the tournament.
The medical assessment dictates that the recovery period will be considerable, impacting Germany’s immediate plans for the World Cup.
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