Nico Schlotterbeck

Analysis: Schlotterbeck had a great opening match despite Germany allowing a goal and losing the clean sheet to the smallest nation to ever compete in the World Cup. He would find his moment in the 38th minute, rising on a corner to score a header and regain the lead. That said, he appeared lethal on their set pieces, always the centerpiece of a corner kick, and recorded two shots via headers. He also still maintained a decent stat line on defense, highlighted by his five clearances.

May 28, 2026

Likely starter for Germany

Schlotterbeck is likely to be a starting center-back for the German national team.

Analysis: Schlotterbeck is coming into the 2026 World Cup as a likely clear starter, set to start in the middle of the defense next to Jonathan Tah. He has previously featured at the World Cup in 2022, getting one start and a bench appearance, although he will see a much more elevated role this World Cup. Coming in on a decently strong defense will help the player in huge ways, as through the group stage, they are unlikely to concede many goals. He ended the club campaign with 11 clean sheets in his 28 league starts, holding a decent presence in the defense.

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