Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann faces a significant challenge at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. After their 2014 triumph, Die Mannschaft suffered two consecutive group stage eliminations, creating high expectations and little room for error. Germany is considered among the favorites, and the expanded tournament format should ease their path out of a group featuring Curacao, Ivory Coast, and Ecuador before the knockout rounds begin.

The goalkeeping position saw a major shift following Manuel Neuer's international retirement after Euro 2024. While Marc-Andre Ter Stegen was initially expected to step up, persistent injury issues have led Nagelsmann to rely on Hoffenheim captain Oliver Baumann throughout World Cup qualifying. Baumann is now the clear No. 1, with Stuttgart's Alexander Nubel and Bayern's Jonas Urbig likely completing the trio, leaving experienced options like Kevin Trapp or Stefan Ortega out of the squad.

Germany boasts excellent options at left-back. RB Leipzig captain David Raum is firmly established in the international setup, known for his prolific assists and constant attacking threat. His offensive contributions are expected to allow Florian Wirtz to operate more centrally. Frankfurt's Nathaniel Brown, with four goals and four assists this Bundesliga season, is a strong contender to be Raum's deputy, with Stuttgart's Maximilian Mittelstadt providing considerable depth.

In central defense, left-footed centre-backs with exceptional distribution skills are highly valued. Fortunately for Germany, Borussia Dortmund's Nico Schlotterbeck is considered among the best in this regard and appears to be Julian Nagelsmann's preferred choice for the role.

This projected squad highlights Nagelsmann's strategy to blend experienced players with emerging talents, aiming to restore Germany's dominance on the international stage. The focus on reliable performers in key positions like goalkeeper and defense underscores the team's ambition to navigate the expanded 2026 World Cup tournament successfully and avoid past disappointments.