The German women’s national football team is entering its World Cup preparation cycle with a revised 24-player roster that features the return of captain Giulia Gwinn and forward Laura Freigang, while goalkeeper Ann-Katrin Berger takes a scheduled break.
Head coach Christian Wück named his squad for upcoming friendlies against Australia and Japan, scheduled for October 9 and October 13 in Karlsruhe and Bremen respectively. The fixtures mark the opening phase of preparations aimed at the 2027 World Cup, which will be hosted in Brazil from June 24 to July 25.
Gwinn Returns From Injury as Berger Rests
Captain Giulia Gwinn rejoins the national team setup after recovering from a shoulder injury that required surgery in June. The Bayern Munich full-back missed World Cup qualifiers against Norway and Slovenia due to the procedure. Her return bolsters the defensive line for matches against two high-caliber opponents.
Wück emphasized the value of the upcoming friendlies, noting that tests against Australia and Japan provide the necessary competition to evaluate personnel and refine tactical approaches. At the same time, goalkeeper Ann-Katrin Berger of Gotham FC will sit out the October international window following a mutual agreement with the coaching staff to take a temporary break.
Doping Test Inquiries Surround Freigang
Laura Freigang returns to the senior squad after previously being named only on standby for the conclusion of the World Cup qualifiers. The Eintracht Frankfurt forward faces a potential suspension as the German Football Association (DFB) investigates possible anti-doping rule violations that began surfacing in early June. According to governing body reviews, Freigang allegedly failed three times within a year to accurately report her current whereabouts for doping controls.
Young Talent and Roster Adjustments
The 24-player selection includes a first-time call-up for 19-year-old Arsenal forward Lisa Baum, who enters the talent evaluation pool for the 2027 tournament. Additional returns to the squad feature Bibiane Schulze Solano, Franziska Kett, Cora Zicai, and reserve goalkeeper Laura Dick.
Injuries have sidelined experienced defenders Kathrin Hendrich and Rebecca Knaak, while forward Nicole Anyomi continues her individual rehabilitation program. Notably, the roster highlights an expanding international footprint, with 11 players currently under contract at foreign clubs—including six professionals playing in England’s Women’s Super League, more than ever before.
Confirmed Squad Selection
- Goalkeepers: Laura Dick (TSG Hoffenheim), Stina Johannes (VfL Wolfsburg), Ena Mahmutovic (Bayern Munich)
- Defenders: Giulia Gwinn (Bayern Munich), Franziska Kett (Bayern Munich), Sophia Kleinherne (VfL Wolfsburg), Camilla Küver (VfL Wolfsburg), Janina Minge (VfL Wolfsburg), Marie Müller (Portland Thorns FC), Bibiane Schulze Solano (Athletic Bilbao), Carlotta Wamser (Manchester City)
- Midfielders and Forwards: Lisa Baum (FC Arsenal), Jule Brand (Olympique Lyon), Klara Bühl (Bayern Munich), Selina Cerci (FC Arsenal), Linda Dallmann (Bayern Munich), Vivien Endemann (FC Liverpool), Laura Freigang (Eintracht Frankfurt), Melissa Kössler (Denver Summit FC), Larissa Mühlhaus (Eintracht Frankfurt), Sjoeke Nüsken (FC Chelsea), Lea Schüller (Manchester United), Elisa Senß (Real Madrid), Cora Zicai (VfL Wolfsburg)
Germany plays Australia in Karlsruhe on October 9, followed by the fixture against Japan in Bremen on October 13.
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