Borussia Dortmund centre-back Nico Schlotterbeck suffered a medial collateral ligament injury to his left ankle during Germany's 2-1 Group E victory over Ivory Coast and was replaced by Antonio Rudiger at half-time. Germany's national team confirmed he "will be out for several months."
The 26-year-old had played the entire opening match—a 7-1 win over Curacao—and scored their second goal. He was immediately sidelined after sustaining the injury against Ivory Coast. Manager Julian Nagelsmann said: "It could have been his World Cup. Schlotti will be greatly missed on the pitch as an outstanding defender, especially his excellent build-up play."
Germany cannot call up a replacement as the tournament has already begun. Their remaining centre-back options are Jonathan Tah, Antonio Rudiger, Waldemar Anton and Newcastle United's Malick Thiaw.
Schlotterbeck's absence weakens Germany's defensive composition, potentially affecting clean sheet odds and defensive markets in their remaining group matches and knockout stage.
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