"Not looking too good" – Nagelsmann gives injury update on Schlotterbeck

Julian Nagelsmann gave an injury update on Nico Schlotterbeck after the centre-back was forced off in Germany's win over Côte d'Ivoire.

Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images

Germany were rocked by an injury blow in their 2-1 World Cup win over Côte d’Ivoire on Saturday, with Nico Schlotterbeck forced off at half-time.

Speaking to ZDF after the game, Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann wasn't exactly optimistic in his assessment of the injury.

“He has an issue with his medial ligament and needs to have an MRI tomorrow.. It's not looking too good – unfortunately,” Nagelsmann said.

Schlotterbeck felt the issue early on but remained on the pitch until the break as his discomfort persisted.

“In the end, it is largely a tactical decision whether he can still perform. And he did very well until half-time,” Nagelsmann added, explaining why the centre-back was not withdrawn earlier.

Schlotterbeck has started both of Germany’s opening two matches alongside Jonathan Tah in central defence. He was replaced by Antonio Rüdiger at half-time against Côte d’Ivoire.