German national team defender Nico Schlotterbeck will miss the upcoming World Cup after sustaining a left ankle ligament injury. The German Football Association (DFB) confirmed the injury on Monday, effectively ending his participation in the tournament. Details regarding the nature and severity of the injury were not immediately disclosed, but it is deemed significant enough to prevent his recovery and selection for the World Cup squad. This loss represents a setback for the German team’s defensive lineup as they prepare for the competition. Schlotterbeck’s absence will likely necessitate a reshuffling of the team’s defensive strategy and potentially the inclusion of a replacement player. The DFB has not yet announced whether a replacement will be called up.