Borussia Dortmund sporting director Lars Ricken has traveled to the United States to provide support for defender Nico Schlotterbeck, who has been ruled out of the 2026 World Cup.
The 49-year-old is expected to be present at the team's final group stage match against Ecuador in East Rutherford on Thursday.
Schlotterbeck sustained a ligament rupture in his left ankle during Germany’s 2-1 victory over Ivory Coast.
The injury ends the 26-year-old’s tournament campaign and represents a significant setback for the national team’s defensive options.
The development adds to the mounting pressure on the German squad as it navigates the knockout stages.
Schlotterbeck’s absence forces tactical adjustments ahead of the crucial group decider, with the team needing to secure favorable positioning for the round of 16.