Borussia Dortmund defender Nico Schlotterbeck has suffered a setback just days before Germany’s UEFA Nations League fixture against Serbia. 

The central defender went down during a national team training session, prompting immediate concern among coaching staff and medical personnel.

According to reports from the German football association, Schlotterbeck was seen covering his face in discomfort after the incident on the training pitch. 

Team doctor Dr. Jochen Hahne closely examined the player on site and determined that a foot injury is the source of the problem. 

An MRI scan has been scheduled to assess the full extent of the damage and provide a clearer prognosis.

This latest issue arrives at an unwelcome moment for the 24-year-old. Schlotterbeck only recently returned to action after an injury sustained during the 2026 FIFA World Cup. 

He was substituted in Germany’s group-stage match against Ivory Coast and subsequently missed several months of football while recovering.

He returned in Dortmund’s comfortable 3-0 victory over Paderborn, where he played 77 minutes. 

The following week he demonstrated further progress by playing the full 90 minutes in the clash against Stuttgart.

National team coach Jürgen Klopp rewarded that form with a call-up, and Schlotterbeck featured in Germany’s 1-1 draw with the Netherlands.

His ability to step back into high-level matches so soon after a lengthy absence was seen as a positive sign for both club and country.

At this stage it remains unclear how long the new foot injury will keep Schlotterbeck out of action. Medical staff will await the MRI results before deciding on a recovery timeline.

 For Dortmund and Germany, the hope will be that the setback proves minor and the versatile center-back can return to full fitness without another extended absence.