Julian Nagelsmann announced the German national team's squad for tests against Switzerland on March 27 and Ghana on March 30. The coach detailed the inclusions and exclusions of several publicly debated players. The squad shows parallels to the 2026 World Cup roster but is not final.
Julian Nagelsmann unveiled the squad for the first tests in the 2026 World Cup year, containing no major surprises. 'It is important that we have a large pool of players who have been around for a while,' explained the 38-year-old. He stressed that core players should feel trust and that not every dip in form would prompt changes. Jamal Musiala is absent due to ankle pain from a club World Cup injury; Nagelsmann prioritizes recovery: 'Letting him dribble for two minutes in pain benefits no one.' Lennart Karl, 18 from FC Bayern, gets his first call-up. Despite recent limited playtime, Nagelsmann praises his 'gene for solving one-on-one situations' and expects carefree play. Antonio Rüdiger was selected despite a 'soccer-specific foul' in Spain where he hit an opponent in the head. Nagelsmann highlights his dedication: 'He is one who extremely protects the national team family.' Deniz Undav, Stuttgart's top German scorer this season, is included despite prior lack of contact: 'You can't leave a striker with that tally at home.' Pascal Groß from Brighton is lauded as selfless and connective, potentially having 'super big significance' at the World Cup. Anton Stach from Leeds returns after four years, showing euphoria. Angelo Stiller from Stuttgart is omitted due to past performances and competition from Pavlo.
