Nico Schlotterbeck’s Recovery Timeline: Dortmund Star Out Until September After World Cup Injury

Borussia Dortmund and Germany defender Nico Schlotterbeck is facing a lengthy spell on the sidelines after a serious ankle injury suffered at the 2026 World Cup. According to German outlet Bild, the club has mapped out a tentative recovery schedule for the 26-year-old centre-back. Schlotterbeck damaged the medial ligament in his ankle during a World Cup match against Ivory Coast, forcing him to cut short his participation in the tournament. He is currently in the early stages of rehabilitation, which will see him wear a protective brace for the next four to six weeks. During this period, his focus will be on strength training and gradually rebuilding fitness. The injury will also rule him out of Dortmund’s summer tour of Japan, scheduled from July 26 to August 2. The Bundesliga side have no intention of rushing his return. If the recovery goes smoothly, Schlotterbeck is expected to rejoin full training and be available for competitive matches by mid-September. Schlotterbeck was a key figure for Germany at the 2026 World Cup, and his absence is a significant blow for both the national team and Dortmund as they prepare for the new season.