The German national soccer team, under coach Julian Nagelsmann, is thriving with a strong, winning mentality, but some players, like Leon Goretzka and Emre Can, are struggling to secure their positions. The squad’s dynamics are shifting as new talents like Deniz Undav and Jamie Leweling emerge, while established players like Niclas Füllkrug face heightened competition. Despite recent injuries, Nagelsmann has maintained a stable structure, fostering a desire among players to succeed, which bodes well for future competitions.
The German national football team is enjoying a period of success under the leadership of head coach Julian Nagelsmann. He has assembled a dynamic squad that exudes a winning mentality. While most positions seem secured, the rise of winners inevitably leads to some players feeling the sting of disappointment.
Leon Goretzka’s prospects of returning to the national squad after recent international matches appear dim. Not too long ago, filling the midfield seemed a pressing issue, with questions swirling around the roles of Joshua Kimmich, Goretzka, and İlkay Gündoğan. The return of veteran Toni Kroos raised expectations for Germany once more, but the landscape has since shifted dramatically.
With Gündoğan and Kroos having retired from international play, and Kimmich transitioning to a right-back position, Goretzka finds himself on the sidelines. The midfield has become increasingly competitive, with Pascal Groß and Robert Andrich claiming slight advantages, despite some inconsistencies. Young talents Aleksandar Pavlović and Angelo Stiller are also making their case for more playtime, demonstrating impressive skills both in attacking and defensive scenarios. The national team looks poised to evolve, especially as they aim for the 2026 World Cup.
Another player facing challenges is Emre Can. The BVB captain enjoyed a resurgence at the European Championships but has struggled to maintain his form, and his absence from recent matches suggests his national team opportunities may be dwindling. However, national coach Nagelsmann has indicated that the door isn’t entirely shut, although goalkeeper Bernd Leno, due to limited playing time, has likely missed his chance to rejoin the squad.
Füllkrug’s Declining Position
The recent matchdays have revealed new dynamics within the team. Nagelsmann was forced to adapt his strategy due to a wave of injuries, disrupting his initial plans for a stable team hierarchy aimed at the 2026 World Cup. Notable absences included Marc-André ter Stegen, Jamal Musiala, and Niclas Füllkrug. Particularly for Füllkrug, now at West Ham United, feelings of disappointment may persist despite his impressive scoring record of 14 goals in 22 international appearances.
Sadly for him, Füllkrug may find himself slipping further down the pecking order. Nagelsmann has a high regard for Kai Havertz, previously absent from the lineup but once again seen as a vital piece in the coach’s setup. Meanwhile, Deniz Undav has emerged as a strong contender; having ascended rapidly through the ranks from SV Meppen to the Champions League with VfB Stuttgart, Undav is making waves both on and off the pitch.
Nagelsmann Thrives on New Challenges
It’s important to consider Tim Kleindienst’s contributions too. While he has shown promise in offensive plays, he has yet to match Füllkrug’s effectiveness in front of goal. However, competition is on the rise, as the recent Nations League matches have shown a strengthening squad and increasing competitive tension. Nagelsmann remarked that it’s beneficial to have fresh talent emerging from the second tier, creating an atmosphere where complacency isn’t an option. Goalkeepers Alexander Nübel and Oliver Baumann have also delivered solid performances, alleviating any concerns in that department.
The standout development comes from Jamie Leweling, another talent rising through the ranks at VfB Stuttgart. Surprisingly part of the squad due to other players’ withdrawals, Leweling capitalized on his opportunity. He particularly impressed against the Netherlands, showcasing versatility in both attack and defense.
A Resilient Framework
Operating predominantly on the right flank, Leweling could forge a partnership with untouchables like Musiala and Florian Wirtz, who bear the weight of national expectations. Depending on Nagelsmann’s formation, they could see additional support from Kimmich or other Bayern stars. While Serge Gnabry has returned from injury without yet reclaiming peak performance, Leroy Sané also finds himself vying for a spot amid fierce competition from talents like Musiala and new signing Michael Olise.
Chris Führich might also share feelings of disappointment; after an impressive previous season, he has struggled to replicate that form early in the current campaign, fighting to maintain his position on this ever-evolving DFB team. Former international Thomas Müller recognized the positive trends emerging, highlighting the players’ eagerness to represent their country, and emphasizing the growth in team quality and stability.
According to Nagelsmann, one of the biggest improvements is the team’s collective ambition to win, a mentality he has fostered throughout his eventful first year in charge. Thus, a cohesive, motivated team is forming, ready to harness the qualities