Image Credits: Imago Images
Nico Schlotterbeck’s World Cup heartbreak has arrived at the worst possible time for both Germany and the defender himself.
The Borussia Dortmund star now facing up to two months on the sidelines after a serious ankle problem sustained against Ivory Coast.
The 26‑year‑old had started Germany’s 2-1 group-stage win before pulling up following a heavy challenge in the first half.
He was unable to continue after the interval and was withdrawn at half-time, with early fears of ligament damage quickly confirmed by further tests. Subsequent scans revealed a torn inner ligament in his left ankle, immediately ruling him out of the rest of the 2026 World Cup.
Sky Sport Germany report Kerry Hau reported that the injury he sustained at the weekend will rule him out of the World Cup – and up to two months on top of that:
“World Cup exit for Nico Schlotterbeck! The DFB defender tore the inner ligament in his left ankle against Ivory Coast, per Sky reports. The MRI scan on Sunday confirmed it. He will be out for around two months. So, so bitter,” Hau wrote on X.
It remains to be seen whether this could influence a potential Liverpool move for the defender, with DaveOCKOP.com reporting at the end of May that Liverpool could make a move for the 26-year-old.
His representatives have previously visited the AXA Training Centre during last season.
The Reds may sense an opportunity if Dortmund’s bargaining position weakens.
Equally, they could decide to prioritise fully fit alternatives rather than gamble significant funds on a player returning from ankle ligament damage.
Either way, what was shaping up as a potentially defining summer for Schlotterbeck’s career now comes with far more uncertainty than anyone at Anfield – or in the Germany camp – would have liked.
🚨🇩🇪 BREAKING: WM-Aus für Nico Schlotterbeck! Der DFB-Verteidiger hat sich nach Sky Infos gegen die Elfenbeinküste das Innenband im linken Sprunggelenk gerissen. Das ergab der MRT-Scan am Sonntag. Er wird rund zwei Monate ausfallen. Ganz, ganz bitter … @SkySportDE @berger_pj…
— Kerry Hau (@kerry_hau) June 22, 2026