The 26-year-old Borussia Dortmund centre-back was hurt early in the first half following a challenge with Ivory Coast winger Amad Diallo. Despite receiving treatment, Schlotterbeck battled on until the interval before being replaced by Antonio Rudiger.

Subsequent scans confirmed a tear to the medial collateral ligament in his left ankle, with the German Football Association (DFB) announcing that the defender will be sidelined for several months. Although his World Cup is over, Schlotterbeck will remain with the squad in the United States for the time being.

The injury is a significant blow for Germany, with Schlotterbeck having started both of their Group E matches and scoring in the emphatic 7-1 victory over Curacao. His performances had cemented his place at the heart of Julian Nagelsmann's defence, where his left-footed distribution and ability to build attacks from the back were key components of Germany's play.

"We'll miss Schlotti enormously on the pitch," Nagelsmann said after the diagnosis was confirmed. "He's an outstanding defender and his ability to play out from the back is exceptional. It could have been his World Cup.

"Yesterday we all tried to lift his spirits and fortunately he's a very positive person who is already looking ahead. The fact that he's staying here with the squad for now is a lovely gesture because he also has an influence off the pitch."

Nagelsmann had already feared the worst after the match against Ivory Coast, admitting the situation "definitely doesn't look good" and expressing surprise that Schlotterbeck managed to continue playing until half-time.

Germany's victory over Ivory Coast, secured by a late Deniz Undav winner, ensured they remained on course for the knockout stages, but the celebrations were tempered by the loss of one of their most influential defenders.

Rudiger is expected to continue alongside Jonathan Tah in central defence, while Waldemar Anton and Newcastle United defender Malick Thiaw provide additional cover. However, none offer the balance of a natural left-footed centre-back that Schlotterbeck brought to the side.

The news was also met with disappointment at Borussia Dortmund. Sporting director Lars Ricken praised Schlotterbeck's recent form and backed him to recover strongly.

"I feel extremely sorry for Nico; he was in really good form and an indispensable part of our national team's starting line-up," Ricken said. "But Nico showed last year how he can come back even stronger after an injury. He'll do the same this time too; we're convinced of that."

Germany have already secured top spot in Group E and will conclude their group-stage campaign against Ecuador before turning their attention to the knockout rounds, where they will now have to continue their World Cup challenge without one of their defensive mainstays.

Gayton McKenzie defends Bafana Bafana, hits back at former players’ criticism