Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann has stated that his team deserved a greater reward for their performances in the group stage of the FIFA World Cup 2026, as they gear up to face Ecuador in their final Group E fixture on Thursday (local time) in New Jersey.
In a video shared by DSPORTS on its X handle, Nagelsmann reflected on Germany's campaign so far and stressed the importance of maintaining momentum ahead of the decisive clash. "We deserved to have scored more points in the group stage matches," Nagelsmann said while discussing Ecuador.
Schlotterbeck ruled out with ankle injury
Germany suffered a major blow ahead of the knockout stages after defender Nico Schlotterbeck was ruled out for the remainder of the tournament due to a serious ankle injury. The centre-back sustained the injury during Germany's 2-1 victory over the Ivory Coast, forcing Nagelsmann to make an untimely defensive reshuffle at a crucial stage.
According to Goal.com, an MRI scan revealed medial ligament damage in Schlotterbeck's left ankle, an injury that typically requires around two months of recovery. The defender initially received treatment and attempted to play on, but was unable to continue and was substituted at half-time after the full extent of the injury became apparent. The diagnosis ends any hope of a quick return and leaves Germany without one of its most influential defenders for the knockout rounds.
Impact on Germany's defense
Schlotterbeck had established himself as a key figure in Nagelsmann's defence alongside Jonathan Tah. His composure in possession, ball-playing ability, and balance on the left side of defence made him an integral part of Germany's tactical setup during the group stage. Deniz Undav scored twice to secure the victory over the Ivory Coast, but the result was overshadowed by Schlotterbeck's injury setback.
His absence is expected to open the door for Antonio Rudiger, who replaced him at half-time in that match. The Real Madrid defender had recently lost his starting berth to the Schlotterbeck-Tah partnership following his own injury layoff, but now appears poised to reclaim a regular role as Germany prepares for the knockout phase.
