Marco Reus has been stretchered off during Borussia Dortmund’s clash with Schalke after suffering an injury – just two months before the World Cup.
The Germany international’s injury record is wretched and he’s missed three major international tournaments in his career.
He’s not featured for the national team since 2021, but seven goal contributions in nine games so far this season could’ve seen him sneak into Hansi Flick’s squad for this winter’s competition in Qatar.
Medical personnel immediately rushed over and the Dortmund winger was visibly emotional while lay on the Signal Iduna Park turf. He was then carried off the pitch after a stoppage to play.
At 33-years-old, this winter is likely Reus’ last chance to play for Germany on the grandest stage of all.
Supporters are distraught at the news and they’re praying the injury isn’t serious.
Reus discussed his battle with injuries in an interview with the Bundesliga’s official website in 2017, explaining he he tries to keep a positive mindset.
The former Borussia Monchengladbach man said: “I’ve experienced a lot, and had to endure a lot of setbacks. That’s part of life. Nevertheless, I always try to give my all every season, be healthy and recuperate.
“The older you get, the more responsibility you have to look after yourself. You get to know your body better all the time. I need that in my situation in order to play well.
“I can only perform to the level I expect of myself if I stay fit for a number of months or even one-two years. In general, I think positively. Even when I’m injured, I never say: ‘damn, why me?'”