Germany’s Schlotterbeck suffers injury blow: how could it affect a possible Real Madrid transfer?
After limping out of Germany’s victory over the Ivory Coast, Nico Schlotterbeck could be facing a lengthy spell on the sidelines.
Bad news for Germany - and for Nico Schlotterbeck. The center back went down injured in the first half of the Germans’ World Cup win over the Ivory Coast on Saturday, having suffered suspected medial ligament damage in his left ankle. It’s a brutal blow for both the player and Die Mannschaft, who were forced to bring on Antonio Rüdiger at halftime in his place.
“Not looking good”
Pending further medical evaluation, head coach Julian Nagelsmann’s initial update offered little optimism. Confirming that Schlotterbeck appears to have sustained a ligament injury, Nagelsmann said postgame in Toronto: “It’s not looking good.”
A Real target - but Bernabéu move may have to wait
Schlotterbeck had been a lock in the heart of the German back line alongside Jonathan Tah, and his name had been circulating in transfer chatter with several European giants - including Real Madrid - thought to be interested. His most recent contract extension with Borussia Dortmund included a €60 million ($68 million) release clause, a figure seen as attainable for a number of top clubs.
The World Cup was shaping up to be a prime showcase for Schlotterbeck, and he had been starting regularly, but misfortune has struck in the form of this injury. Pending confirmation from Sunday’s medical tests, he appears likely to miss the rest of the tournament in North America, and could be sidelined for several months. For now, any potential move to Madrid would also be on hold.
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