German centre-back Nico Schlotterbeck has resumed individual training with the ball this week, marking his return from a serious injury sustained against Ivory Coast during the 2026 FIFA World Cup. This news, reported by GetFootballNewsGermany, is a relief for Borussia Dortmund, who have been without their key defender since Germany's group stage match against the Elephants in June.
The 26-year-old twisted his ankle during Germany's second group game at the World Cup 2026. The incident immediately ended his tournament and subsequently kept him off the pitch all summer. He missed the entirety of Borussia Dortmund's pre-season and the first official matches of the 2026/27 campaign.
How did Dortmund cope without him?
In Schlotterbeck's absence, manager Niko Kovac had to find solutions to rebuild his central defence. For the Bundesliga opener against Hamburg, a 2-0 win, Kovac started 19-year-old Frenchman Joane Gadou, signed this summer from Red Bull Salzburg. The coach also repositioned Daniel Svensson at left centre-back. These adjustments paid off as the club kept clean sheets in both the Bundesliga and DFB Pokal at the start of the season.
The signing of Gadou now looks like a shrewd piece of planning. The young defender was immediately integrated into the starting eleven, demonstrating the depth Dortmund wanted to build. Schlotterbeck's injury accelerated his integration process and tested the team's defensive solidity ahead of their starter's return.
What was the impact of this injury on Ivory Coast?
The context of Schlotterbeck's injury is directly linked to Ivory Coast's 2026 World Cup campaign. The Elephants, currently second in their group with 6 points, a record of 2 wins, 0 draws and 1 loss, have faced a tough run of results. Their last match was a 2-1 defeat to Norway on 30 June 2026, and their recent form over the last five games is concerning with just one win and four losses.
The team has scored 4 goals but conceded 2 in this group stage, showing a goal difference of +2. Fans can check the detailed latest performances on our stats page. The recent sequence, with two consecutive defeats, highlights the challenges facing the Ivorian national team in a very competitive group.
When can Schlotterbeck play again?
For now, Schlotterbeck's return is limited to individual sessions with the ball. The club has not communicated a precise timetable for his return to team training or for a potential match comeback. His recovery will be closely monitored, especially as defensive depth has already been tested.
The defender's gradual return is excellent news for Kovac, who will soon be able to count on one of his key players. The defensive solidity shown in his absence is encouraging, but the return of a player of this quality can only benefit the club's ambitions in the league and cup. Progress on his fitness can be followed on our dedicated injuries page.
Schlotterbeck's priority will be to regain competitive rhythm without rushing. Dortmund's medical staff will manage this phase cautiously to avoid any setback. His last appearance on a pitch was in the match against Ivory Coast over two months ago. The Elephants' next fixture is important for their 2026 World Cup journey.
