Germany goalkeeper Rene Adler will miss this summer’s World Cup in South Africa because of a rib operation, Germany coach Joachim Loew confirmed on Tuesday.
Adler picked up the injury on April 17 in the 3-0 victory over Hanover and the 25-year-old suffered a recurrence last Saturday in the 1-1 draw against Hertha Berlin.
“It has been the most difficult decision of my life but it would have been irresponsible towards my club and the national team,” said Adler, explaining his decision to have the operation.
“Naturally we are very sorry that Rene needs an operation after all and will miss the World Cup as a result,” said Loew.
“We in the coaching team will now discuss, which goalkeepers will travel to South Africa and make the decision public on Thursday at the press conference in Stuttgart to announce the World Cup squad.” Loew made Adler his number one in February ahead of Manuel Neuer of Schalke 04 and Werder Bremen’s Tim Wiese.
Bayern Munich’s Joerg Butt or Roman Weidenfeller of Borussia Dortmund are now expected to get the call as third goalkeeper in the German squad.
