Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann is meticulously shaping the national team, embarking on strategic overhauls as the nation eyes deep runs in upcoming major tournaments, including the 2026 World Cup. Having already guided his squad to the Euro 2024 quarterfinals and the Nations League Finals, Nagelsmann’s focus now shifts to fine-tuning player roles and squad dynamics, a process he recently shed light on during a coaching congress in Leipzig.
A significant revelation from the Bundestrainer concerns the pivotal role of captain Joshua Kimmich. Nagelsmann confirmed his intention to deploy Kimmich primarily in midfield, a tactical decision that marks a notable departure from Kimmich’s recent assignments as a right-back for the national team since 2024. This move aligns with Kimmich’s current club responsibilities, where he has consistently excelled in a central midfield position under Vincent Kompany.
The shift for Joshua Kimmich naturally opens questions about the right-back position. While Nagelsmann refrained from naming specific candidates to fill the void, he did maintain a pragmatic stance, indicating that Kimmich’s return to the defensive flank remains a possibility should the new right-back options fail to meet performance expectations. Nagelsmann underscored Kimmich’s “outstanding stats as a right-back” and his “tremendous influence on the game” from that role, highlighting his versatility and importance to the squad’s strategic flexibility.
Meanwhile, the always-present discussion surrounding Germany’s goalkeeping situation gained new traction with a report from Tobi Altschäffl suggesting a potential return for veteran Manuel Neuer next year. This speculation arises amidst the ongoing struggles of current number one Marc-André ter Stegen, whose recent club form has seen him demoted to third-choice goalkeeper at FC Barcelona under coach Hansi Flick. The situation has intensified due to Ter Stegen’s recent health issues.
Marc-André ter Stegen’s plight is further compounded by a recent back operation, which is expected to sideline the goalkeeper until at least December. This unfortunate injury creates a temporary vacuum in the national team’s depth, leading many to wonder if an experienced figure like Manuel Neuer, a towering presence for the German national team, would be considered to step back into the fold given the circumstances.
However, Julian Nagelsmann swiftly dispelled any notions of a Manuel Neuer comeback, unequivocally stating that he is not considering that particular possibility for the immediate future. This firm stance from the German coach clarifies the national team’s direction regarding its goalkeeping strategy, emphasizing a commitment to the current trajectory despite unforeseen challenges and the allure of a return for the legendary goalkeeper.
With Neuer having retired from the national team following EURO 2024 and ter Stegen currently sidelined, other goalkeepers have stepped up. Oliver Baumann and Alexander Nübel have both received opportunities to prove their capabilities in the national setup, underscoring the depth and ongoing assessment within Germany’s goalkeeping ranks as they prepare for critical competitive fixtures and look towards the 2026 World Cup.
Nagelsmann’s public declarations offer a clear glimpse into his long-term vision for the German national team, balancing tactical innovation with a pragmatic approach to player selection and injury management. The discussions around Joshua Kimmich’s role and the definitive statement on Manuel Neuer’s status underscore the meticulous planning underway as Germany strives to build a formidable squad capable of challenging for top honors on the global stage.
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