The German national team must forego the services of defender Nico Schlotterbeck for the remainder of the World Cup tournament in North America. According to reporting from Sky and Bild, the Dortmund player sustained a lateral ligament tear in his left ankle during Germany’s victory over Ivory Coast. The Borussia Dortmund defender suffered the injury in the early minutes of Saturday’s game, though he was not replaced until halftime. Antonio Rüdiger is expected to start in his place, having already substituted for Schlotterbeck during the match against the Ivorians.
Regarding the next match on Thursday, National Team coach Julian Nagelsmann may look to use the position as an opportunity for tactical experimentation. Since Germany has already secured the top spot in their group, the final group game against Ecuador holds little sporting significance for the team.
