This article is part of the 2026 World Cup Experts’ Network, uniting top media organizations from the 48 countries that qualified. As the tournament approaches, previews are being published daily in the lead-up to the kickoff on June 11.
Tactical Overview
Understanding the tactics employed by Germany under Julian Nagelsmann can be complex, as he frequently alters his formations and lineups. Their qualifying campaign featured several lackluster performances, including a disappointing 2-0 loss in Slovakia, which could have been more severe. However, they turned the tables in the return match, dominating with a 6-0 victory and ultimately progressing comfortably at the top of their group.
Nagelsmann is likely to draw from the successful lineup in that Leipzig match, emphasizing the need for his players to show passion. “We have to play with emotion,” he stated, known for his intense and tactical approach on the sidelines.
Historically, Germany’s success has stemmed from adopting strategies that proved effective at Bayern Munich, as seen during their World Cup victories in 1974 and 2014. This season has been particularly fruitful for Bayern, which bodes well for the national team. Consequently, Nagelsmann will likely rely on a Bayern-centric core featuring Jonathan Tah, Aleksandar Pavlovic, Joshua Kimmich, Leon Goretzka, and Jamal Musiala, alongside Manuel Neuer, who returned from international retirement in May to participate in his fifth World Cup.
However, questions remain about the reliability of the Munich contingent. Musiala’s recent form has been lackluster, and Goretzka, who spent much of the latter half of the season on the bench, is still expected to start. Additionally, Kimmich will shift to a right-back position for Germany, differing from his central midfield role at Bayern, which carries inherent risks.
Coaching Challenges
Julian Nagelsmann is facing increasing criticism from various figures within German football. Recently, Uli Hoeness accused him of misunderstanding his responsibilities. “Our national coach thinks he wins the match. No, the team wins the match,” remarked the influential honorary president of Bayern Munich. Despite his tenure being marked by mixed results, Nagelsmann often complicates his situation with puzzling comments. Following a 2-1 victory over Ghana in March, he publicly scolded match-winner Deniz Undav for being insufficiently involved. Although young at 38, the high expectations for Nagelsmann to evolve into a great coach remain unfulfilled.
Star Player Spotlight
Florian Wirtz stands out as a player who merges playmaking abilities with the relentless work ethic of a team player. “He is extremely hard-working and not a classic No 10 who only wants the ball, but someone who also puts in a lot of work,” Nagelsmann remarked in defense of Wirtz amid criticism after his transfer to England. While his season at Liverpool was not disastrous, it fell short of the high standards expected based on his talent and transfer fee. The same can be said for his performance with the national team. In matches against weaker opponents, like the 4-3 victory over Switzerland in March, Wirtz showcased his technical prowess and synergy with Havertz and Musiala. Yet, if Germany hopes to advance, the 23-year-old must elevate his game against tougher competitors.
Emerging Player to Watch
The injury to Lennart Karl may open the door for Denis Undav to see more playing time than anticipated this summer, especially given his complicated relationship with Nagelsmann. As the most efficient German striker this season, Undav’s contributions have been significant, though Nagelsmann has not always valued him. After scoring the decisive goal against Ghana in March, the coach offered little praise, instead stating, “He wasn’t very involved in the game, had no actions before [the goal],” This might have stemmed from Undav’s pre-match comments about wanting to start rather than be a substitute. Despite Nagelsmann’s criticisms, the demand for Undav’s inclusion may grow among fans.
Defensive Backbone
While Nico Schlotterbeck and Antonio Rüdiger gain more visibility, Jonathan Tah is arguably Germany’s most reliable defender. His tackling strength and ball composure will be vital for the team’s success. Off the pitch, Tah is reserved, but on it, he has carved out a crucial role. He is set to make his World Cup debut at age 30. “I didn’t think his performance was good.” he noted in an interview two years ago. “It was never pleasant playing against me, because I have a certain physicality,”
Projected Starting Lineup
Fan Expectations
Chants like “But now I’m even more unpleasant, because I always keep my opponent in view and stay right on him.” and “Olé, super Deutschland, olé!” echo the spirit of German fans, though they struggle to match the creativity of Musiala’s dribbling. During the home Euros two years prior, Nagelsmann expressed concerns about the lack of vibrancy from the crowd. In response, the DFB established a working group in 2024 aimed at enhancing the matchday atmosphere: the AG Stimmung. “Deutschlaand, Deutschlaaand, Deutschlaaaand!” explained lead chanter Bengt Kunkel. However, Kunkel will not be traveling to the United States, echoing the sentiments of many supporters who find this World Cup too vast and costly. Nonetheless, it’s anticipated that more fans will attend in the US, Mexico, and Canada compared to Qatar.
Political Climate
Similar to German football, the political landscape is also facing challenges. In late April, Friedrich Merz criticized Donald Trump in front of students, alleging he acted without a coherent strategy in conflicts like Iran. Trump dismissed Merz’s comments, claiming he lacked understanding and was ineffective. This highlights the need for leaders, including the chancellor and national coach, to be cautious with their public statements. Despite a brief discussion in Germany about a World Cup boycott over the Greenland crisis, the DFB seems reluctant to take a stand, still haunted by the controversy surrounding the One Love armband during the Qatar tournament. Joshua Kimmich, the team captain, remarked, “People want to sing, they just need someone to tell them what to sing,”
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