Am Donnerstag nominiert Julian Nagelsmann den WM-Kader. Dann muss der Bundestrainer endlich das Wir-Gefühl erzeugen, das bisher fehlt. Dabei lechzt Deutschland geradezu nach einer anderen Grundstimmung.
As Germany approaches the 2026 FIFA World Cup, coach Julian Nagelsmann faces a pivotal moment in his tenure. The nation’s footballing identity—once defined by relentless organization and unshakable willpower—has faltered in recent years, culminating in back-to-back World Cup group-stage exits. Now, with the final squad announcement set for May 21, 2026, Nagelsmann must rekindle the collective spirit that once made Germany a global footballing powerhouse.
“Football is a simple game: 22 men chase a ball for 90 minutes – and, the Germans always win,” quipped Gary Lineker after Germany’s 1990 World Cup semi-final victory over England. That mantra, once a symbol of German football’s tactical discipline and mental fortitude, has faded in recent decades. Nagelsmann, however, is determined to resurrect it.
The Legacy of German Football: From Bern to Munich
Germany’s World Cup history is etched with moments of unyielding resilience. The 1954 “Miracle of Bern,” where a team of underdogs defeated Hungary to claim their first title, and the 1974 triumph in West Germany, where the “total football” philosophy of Franz Beckenbauer redefined the game, remain benchmarks. These teams were not defined by flair but by a relentless work ethic, tactical precision, and an unbreakable belief in their system.
“Germany’s DNA is about mentality, not aesthetics,” explains a 2026 World Cup feature by GOAL, highlighting Nagelsmann’s philosophy. “It’s about organisation, willpower, and tactical discipline—values that shaped the collective self-image of German football.” The coach’s task is to bridge the gap between this storied legacy and the modern game, where technical brilliance often overshadows traditional strengths.
Nagelsmann’s Challenge: Rebuilding the “Wir-Gefühl”
Despite his young age (42 as of 2026), Nagelsmann has already made a name for himself as a tactician who prioritizes unity and adaptability. His decision to delay the World Cup squad announcement until May 21—three days after this writing—reflects his desire to “create the Wir-Gefühl [sense of togetherness] that has been missing,” as noted in a May 17, 2026, report from GOAL. This strategy allows him to fine-tune the squad while fostering a cohesive team culture.
“If I start commenting on [the Neuer issue], it could distract from the real work,” Nagelsmann said, hinting at the pressure surrounding veteran goalkeeper Manuel Neuer’s potential inclusion. The coach’s focus on unity is critical: Germany’s recent struggles have often stemmed from a lack of collective identity, with individual talent overshadowing team cohesion.
The Road to 2026: Tactical and Psychological Shifts
Nagelsmann’s approach emphasizes adaptability. While traditional German football relied on rigid structures, his teams have experimented with fluid formations and positional play. This evolution is evident in his work with RB Leipzig and the Bundesliga, where he has balanced defensive solidity with attacking creativity. For the 2026 World Cup, he must strike a similar balance, blending the old guard with emerging stars.
Key to this strategy is the integration of young talents like Jamal Musiala and Kai Havertz, who represent the future of German football. At the same time, Nagelsmann must navigate the delicate task of managing veteran players such as Neuer, Thomas Müller, and Mats Hummels, whose experience could be vital in high-stakes matches.
The Pressure of Expectations
Germany’s footballing public is demanding. After a 2022 World Cup campaign that ended
