Brobbey limps off with hamstring concern in Netherlands' 1-1 draw against Germany

Brian Brobbey was forced off in the 35th minute of the Netherlands’ 1-1 Nations League draw with Germany on Thursday, raising serious fitness concerns for both his country and Sunderland ahead of a packed fixture schedule.

The 24-year-old dropped to the floor without contact before signalling immediately to the Netherlands bench for a substitution. He was able to walk off the pitch unaided but left the tunnel with assistance from medical staff, with the injury appearing hamstring-related.

Netherlands head coach Xavi, taking charge of the national side for the first time, confirmed after the game that Brobbey would be replaced in the squad ahead of Sunday’s Nations League fixture against Serbia. “Someone is joining, but we don’t know who yet,” the 46-year-old told reporters.

Sunderland acknowledged the setback on social media shortly after the final whistle: “Brian Brobbey was forced off in the first half as the Netherlands secured a late point against Germany. Wishing you a speedy recovery, Brian.”

Brobbey’s exit came during a turbulent evening in Group 2. Five minutes before the Sunderland striker went down, Germany forward Kai Havertz also sustained an injury, with Germany manager Jürgen Klopp later confirming Havertz would miss his side’s remaining Nations League matches.

After Brobbey’s withdrawal, Germany refused to return possession and scored through Felix Nmecha to lead 1-0. Cody Gakpo rescued a point for the Netherlands with an equaliser in the 92nd minute, but Xavi’s side were unable to take all three points.

The timing of the injury is a blow for Sunderland, where Brobbey has started all five Premier League matches this season, accumulating 424 minutes. He notably scored a hat-trick in the Black Cats’ 5-3 defeat at Manchester City earlier this term. Sunderland return to action on October 10 when Brighton visit the Stadium of Light.