Key Takeaways
- Oliver Baumann looks set to take the gloves as Germany’s first-choice keeper following Manuel Neuer’s retirement.
- Joshua Kimmich is expected to move back to right-back despite his excellent form in Bayern Munich’s midfield.
- Jamal Musiala and Florian Wirtz will carry the creative burden in attack if they stay fit.
Julian Nagelsmann faces a defining challenge as he prepares Germany for the 2026 FIFA World Cup across the United States, Canada and Mexico. The national team suffered the embarrassment of group-stage exits in both 2018 and 2022 after winning the trophy in 2014. For a nation with such high standards, anything less than a serious challenge for the title will be seen as failure.
The expanded 48-team format should help Die Mannschaft avoid early trouble. Their group includes Curaçao, Ivory Coast and Ecuador, so reaching the knockout rounds ought to be straightforward. However, the real test begins in the latter stages where quality and experience matter most.
Goalkeeping Department
Manuel Neuer called time on his international career after Euro 2025. For the first time since 2009, Germany must look beyond their legendary sweeper-keeper. Marc-André ter Stegen appeared the natural successor, but persistent injury problems have blocked his path.
Instead, Nagelsmann has placed his trust in Oliver Baumann. The Hoffenheim captain has started throughout qualifying and deserves to keep his place between the sticks. Alexander Nübel of Stuttgart and Bayern Munich’s Jonas Urbig should join him as backups, while experienced alternatives like Kevin Trapp and Stefan Ortega will likely miss the final cut.
Defensive Options
At left-back, David Raum has established himself as the undisputed starter. The RB Leipzig captain provides constant width and dangerous crosses, which allows the attackers to drift inside. Eintracht Frankfurt’s Nathaniel Brown offers strong competition after an impressive Bundesliga season, while Maximilian Mittelstädt provides additional cover from Stuttgart.
In the centre of defence, Nico Schlotterbeck brings calm possession play and excellent passing range. His partnership with Jonathan Tah looks set to continue. Tah, now 30, has become the team’s primary physical presence as Antonio Rüdiger struggles with fitness issues at Real Madrid. Malick Thiaw could travel as a versatile option after his move to Newcastle, while former regulars Niklas Süle and Thilo Kehrer have slipped down the pecking order.
Joshua Kimmich will likely return to right-back despite spending the club season in midfield. His leadership, set-piece delivery and tactical intelligence make him vital to Nagelsmann’s system, even if this limits his time on the ball.
Midfield Engine Room
The central pairing looks likely to feature two Bayern Munich colleagues. Aleksandar Pavlovic, aged 21, has earned his place through energetic displays in the Champions League. He complements Leon Goretzka perfectly. The 31-year-old brings power and composure, sitting deep to protect the defence while Pavlovic presses forward.
Goretzka leaves Bayern on a free transfer this summer, so the World Cup offers him a shop window to attract new employers. With Emre Can injured, squad depth could come from Felix Nmecha, Anton Stach, Pascal Groß or Angelo Stiller.
Attacking Threat
Fitness concerns dominate the forward line. Jamal Musiala arrives at the right moment after an injury-hit season. His dribbling ability and creative vision separate him from every other player in the squad. He should operate as the central attacking midfielder.
Florian Wirtz continues to shine for Germany despite a difficult first season at Liverpool. Nagelsmann uses him mainly on the left flank, where he can cut inside and link with Musiala. On the opposite wing, Serge Gnabry’s adductor injury has likely ruled him out.
This creates an opening for Leroy Sané, who has had a steady season with Galatasaray. Youngster Jamie Leweling and Brentford’s Kevin Schade are alternatives, but 18-year-old Bayern prospect Lennart Karl offers the most excitement. His left foot and direct running make him a wildcard option, though Nagelsmann may prefer experience early in the tournament.
Striker Role
Kai Havertz leads the line despite ongoing fitness worries at Arsenal. The forward drops deep to connect play but also finds space inside the penalty area. Deniz Undav provides backup after scoring 18 goals this season, offering a more traditional centre-forward option if needed.
Germany possesses the talent to compete for the trophy. However, their success depends on keeping key players healthy and finding the right balance between youth and experience in Nagelsmann’s starting eleven.