May 23, 2026 | 02:39 pm
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Head coach Julian Nagelsmann has expressed confidence in the Germany national football team ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, saying the squad possesses both quality and strong team chemistry.“The most important point is that we’re convinced this is the best team and one that will work well together as a group,” Nagelsmann said, as quoted by the official website of the German Football Association (DFB) on Saturday, May 23, 2026.Nagelsmann announced Germany’s 26-man World Cup squad on Thursday, with one of the biggest surprises being the return of Manuel Neuer. The veteran goalkeeper had retired from international football in 2024 but has now been recalled for the tournament, which will be hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.Nagelsmann confirmed that the Bayern Munich goalkeeper is expected to reclaim the No. 1 spot for Germany.“I plan to make him our first-choice goalkeeper,” Nagelsmann said.Neuer’s return has sparked debate among fans and pundits, as Oliver Baumann had been Germany’s starting goalkeeper during the World Cup qualifying campaign. However, Nagelsmann said the coaching staff carefully considered the decision.“There were many discussions within the coaching staff. Everyone knows the presence and quality he brings to the team,” the former Bayern Munich coach said.According to Nagelsmann, Neuer’s performances for Bayern Munich this season have remained at a high level, making him well suited to Germany’s attacking style of play. The coach also highlighted Neuer’s leadership and experience as a member of Germany’s 2014 World Cup-winning squad.“There’s no problem with our goalkeepers. That’s the decision, and I think it’s the right one,” Nagelsmann said.Alongside Neuer, Germany’s squad retains several experienced players, including Joshua Kimmich, Jonathan Tah, Antonio Rüdiger, David Raum, Kai Havertz, Florian Wirtz, and Jamal Musiala.Nagelsmann has also included several younger players, among them promising Bayern Munich talent Lennart Karl.“We have a few new players with us, as well as others who have been involved for a long time,” Nagelsmann said. “Working with this team is incredibly enjoyable, and every player has earned his place, both on and off the pitch.”At the 2026 World Cup, Germany has been drawn into Group E alongside Curaçao, Ivory Coast, and Ecuador.Germany’s 2026 FIFA World Cup squad:Goalkeepers: Manuel Neuer, Oliver Baumann, Alexander Nübel, Jonas Urbig.Defenders: Jonathan Tah, Joshua Kimmich, Nico Schlotterbeck, Antonio Rüdiger, David Raum, Nathaniel Brown, Waldemar Anton, Malick Thiaw.Midfielders: Pascal Groß, Leon Goretzka, Aleksandar Pavlovi, Felix Nmecha, Nadiem Amiri, Angelo Stiller.Forwards: Kai Havertz, Nick Woltemade, Deniz Undav, Jamal Musiala, Florian Wirtz, Lennart Karl, Jamie Leweling, Leroy Sané, Maximilian Beier.Read: German 2026 World Cup Squad 'the Best We Have,' Says NagelsmannClick here to get the latest news updates from Tempo on Google News
