Kai Havertz did not take part in the final training of the national soccer team. The 22-year-old offensive star will therefore probably not be able to play in Stuttgart against Armenia.
Hansi Flick is rebuilding the starting XI for his home premiere as national coach in one position or the other. Captain Manuel Neuer returns between the posts in the World Cup qualifier against Armenia on Sunday (8.45 p.m. / RTL) in Stuttgart. “Manu took part in the last training sessions and will be available,” said Flick of the goalkeeper, who had sidelined against Liechtenstein (2-0) due to ankle problems.
Overall, however, “the majority” of the team that played in St. Gallen will start again, stressed Flick, who wants to “bring in” a regular formation. In defense, Flick is forced to make changes after Robin Gosens’ capsule injury. On the left side, Hoffenheim’s David Raum could celebrate his debut. Flick stressed, however, that there are “other options”. On the right, Ridle Baku should get another chance. In the center this time Antonio Rüdiger could defend alongside Niklas Süle.
In defensive midfield, Flick is expected to rely on Bayern duo Joshua Kimmich and Leon Goretzka. Ilkay Gündogan could move up to ten position between outside Serge Gnabry and Leroy Sane. The former Stuttgart Timo Werner is expected again in the storm center, especially since Kai Havertz is unlikely to be deployed due to a mild flu-like infection. The Chelsea FC professional was absent from the final training session.
The expected team line-up: Germany: Neuer / Bayern Munich (35 years / 104 international matches) – Baku / VfL Wolfsburg (23/2), Rüdiger / FC Chelsea (28/45), Süle / Bayern Munich (26/33), Raum / TSG Hoffenheim (23 / 0) – Kimmich / Bayern Munich (26/60), Goretzka / Bayern Munich (26/36) – Gnabry / Bayern Munich (26/27), Gündogan / Manchester City (30/50), Sane / Bayern Munich (25 / 35) – Werner / Chelsea FC (25/43).
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