Germany central defender Nico Schlotterbeck will miss the remainder of the 2026 World Cup due to a torn interior ligament in his left ankle sustained during a victory over Ivory Coast.Since FIFA regulations prevent roster changes after the tournament began, coach Julian Nagelsmann must rely on existing squad members like Antonio Rüdiger to reorganize the defense.The injury leaves the team without their only left-footed center-back as they prepare for the knockout stage in the US.Schlotterbeck will remain with the team during his recovery period despite his inability to participate further in the competition.