Basel, Switzerland – Germany began its preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a thrilling 3-4 victory over Switzerland on Saturday, but the post-match discussion quickly turned to team selection. Following the game, national team manager Julian Nagelsmann offered a firm defense of his choices, particularly regarding the absence of in-form Stuttgart striker Deniz Undav from the starting lineup.
The match in Basel saw a dynamic performance from Germany, but it was the questions surrounding Undav’s omission that dominated the conversation. Undav, who has scored 18 Bundesliga goals this season – second only to Bayern Munich’s Harry Kane – was an unused substitute throughout the contest. Kai Havertz started in his place, with Nick Woltemade later entering the game as a substitute.
During a post-match interview with RTL, moderator Laura Wontorra directly questioned Nagelsmann about the decision, asking, “Why wasn’t it Undav’s game today?” Nagelsmann responded by outlining the tactical considerations that influenced his selection.
“It was a super intensive game, in terms of pressing,” Nagelsmann explained. “Deniz has superb qualities, especially when we have possession and control the ball in the opponent’s half. It was a game of transitions, with many ball wins and quick attacks forward. Nick has a super quota with us, but hasn’t had an easy time at Newcastle.”
Nagelsmann continued, delving into the psychological aspect of managing a squad of high-caliber players. “Now I have the choice of giving a top striker, who is in good form, even more confidence, or letting a top striker, who isn’t quite in form, fall. I’m going to ask a few psychologists what they say. Probably the opposite of what I do. It’s a hobby for psychologists who aren’t in the job to claim the opposite of what all coaches do.”
The Germany manager emphasized the importance of maintaining confidence within the squad, particularly for players who may be experiencing a dip in form. He believes that continuing to play players who are performing well is crucial for sustaining momentum.
Nagelsmann concluded by stating, “I would say it’s advisable for Nick Woltemade to get back on track with us, because things aren’t going 100 percent smoothly at Newcastle. And Dennis [Undav] is already on a run, whether he plays today or not, it won’t change his self-confidence this week.”
Germany now turns its attention to a friendly match against Ghana, scheduled for Monday in Stuttgart. The game will provide another opportunity for Nagelsmann to assess his squad ahead of the World Cup. When asked if Undav might feature in the starting lineup for the match in Stuttgart, Nagelsmann responded, “We haven’t decided that yet.”
The upcoming match against Ghana, taking place at 8:45 PM local time (20:45 CET) on Monday, will be broadcast on ARD and available via a live ticker on BILD.de. [BILD Liveticker]
Julian Nagelsmann, who assumed the role of Germany’s national team manager in September 2023, is tasked with rebuilding the team after a period of underperformance. He previously managed TSG Hoffenheim, RB Leipzig and Bayern Munich, bringing a reputation for tactical innovation and a commitment to developing young talent. Nagelsmann, born July 23, 1987, in Landsberg am Lech, Bavaria, had a playing career cut short by injury and transitioned into coaching at a young age.
The friendly matches against Switzerland and Ghana are crucial for Nagelsmann to experiment with different formations and evaluate players as he finalizes his squad for the 2026 World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The absence of Jamal Musiala from the current squad, due to a recent injury, is another factor Nagelsmann is navigating. He stated that the decision to rest Musiala was made to prioritize the player’s long-term health and ensure his availability for the World Cup tournament itself.
The Germany national team is currently undergoing a period of transition, and Nagelsmann’s leadership will be vital in shaping the team’s future. The upcoming matches provide a valuable opportunity to build momentum and establish a clear tactical identity ahead of the challenges that lie ahead.
Fans eager to follow the team’s progress can identify updates and analysis on Archysport.com, as well as official announcements from the DFB. The focus now shifts to Stuttgart, where Germany will aim to continue its preparations for the 2026 World Cup against a determined Ghana side.
What are your thoughts on Nagelsmann’s squad selection? Share your opinions in the comments below!
