Schlotterbeck's First Words After World Cup-Ending Injury

German international Nico Schlotterbeck has offered a brief statement following the news of his injury, which will sideline him for the remainder of the 2026 World Cup. The unfortunate news broke today that the Borussia Dortmund defender has suffered a torn ligament, requiring approximately eight weeks for recovery, effectively ending his participation in the global tournament.

"I still need some time to process everything and will speak about it later. That's why I won't be making detailed statements on the matter for now. The team is the most important thing right now. They deserve the full support of everyone in Germany. Let's unite and show that we stand behind this German national team through both good and tough times, and that we support them on their path to the World Cup title," the defender stated concisely, as reported by German media.

Schlotterbeck's injury is a significant blow for Germany and head coach Julian Nagelsmann, as the defender started in the first two World Cup matches for the national team and was a crucial part of the coach's plans, even scoring in the 7-1 victory against Curaçao. Against Ivory Coast, where he sustained the injury, he was replaced at halftime by Antonio Rüdiger, who is now expected to fill Schlotterbeck's role in Germany's upcoming matches.