Germany defender Nico Schlotterbeck ruled out of World Cup

Germany's World Cup campaign has suffered a major setback with the loss of defender Nico Schlotterbeck for the remainder of the tournament due to a torn ankle ligament. The German Football Association confirmed the injury on Monday, June 22, after the Borussia Dortmund player underwent an MRI scan.

Schlotterbeck sustained the injury to his left ankle early in Germany's Group E match against Ivory Coast on Saturday, June 20, following a challenge with Ivorian winger Amad Diallo. He played through the remainder of the first half but was substituted at halftime for Antonio Rüdiger. The subsequent scan confirmed a torn ligament, ending his tournament and sidelining him for several months.

Head coach Julian Nagelsmann expressed his disappointment, stating that Schlotterbeck will be greatly missed as an outstanding defender, particularly for his excellent buildup play. He added that it could have been the player's World Cup but noted Schlotterbeck's positive character. The defender will initially remain with the squad in the United States due to his influence off the pitch.

With tournament rules preventing a replacement call-up, Nagelsmann must now rely on his existing defensive...