Nagelsmann Announces Germany's Squad for Nations League Finals

BERLIN – Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann has unveiled his 26-man squad for the upcoming UEFA Nations League Finals, set to be played on home soil in Munich and Stuttgart in June. The roster blends experienced veterans with fresh talent as Germany prepares to face Portugal in the semi-final on June 4th at the Allianz Arena in Munich.

New Faces and Returning Stars

Nagelsmann's selection features two uncapped players: VfB Stuttgart forward Nick Woltemade and Hoffenheim midfielder Tom Bischof, who will join Bayern Munich next season. Woltemade's inclusion comes after a strong season with Stuttgart, earning him a spot in both the senior squad and the U-21 team for the upcoming UEFA U-21 Euros. Bischof, meanwhile, will forgo the U-21 tournament to join Bayern Munich for the Club World Cup in the United States.

The squad also marks the return of several key players who have recently recovered from injuries. Barcelona goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen, West Ham striker Niclas Füllkrug, and Robin Gosens are back in the fold after lengthy spells on the sidelines. Their return provides a significant boost to Germany's chances as they aim to win the Nations League title.

Injury Concerns and Notable Absences

While Nagelsmann welcomes back key players, injuries have forced him to make some difficult decisions. Bayern Munich's Jamal Musiala and Real Madrid's Antonio Rüdiger are unavailable due to hamstring and knee injuries, respectively. Other notable absentees include Kai Havertz, who is still recovering from hamstring surgery, as well as Tim Kleindienst and Nico Schlotterbeck. Angelo Stiller was initially selected but had to withdraw due to an ankle injury sustained in Stuttgart's DFB Cup final win. Jonathan Burkardt was called up as a replacement, but he and Nadiem Amiri were later forced to withdraw due to injuries picked up in training. Thilo Kehrer replaces Inter Milan's injured Yann Bisseck.

The Full Squad

The squad is composed of the following players:

• Goalkeepers: Oliver Baumann (Hoffenheim), Alexander Nübel (Stuttgart), Marc-André ter Stegen (FC Barcelona)
• Defenders: Robert Andrich (Bayer Leverkusen), Waldemar Anton (Borussia Dortmund), Joshua Kimmich (FC Bayern), Robin Koch (Eintracht Frankfurt), Maximilian Mittelstädt (Stuttgart), David Raum (RB Leipzig), Jonathan Tah (Bayer Leverkusen), Thilo Kehrer.
• Midfielders: Karim Adeyemi, Tom Bischof (Hoffenheim/Bayern Munich), Serge Gnabry (FC Bayern), Leon Goretzka (FC Bayern), Robin Gosens, Pascal Groß, Felix Nmecha, Aleksandar Pavlovic (FC Bayern), Leroy Sané (FC Bayern), Florian Wirtz.
• Forwards: Niclas Füllkrug (West Ham), Deniz Undav (Stuttgart), Nick Woltemade (Stuttgart).

Tournament Format and Germany's Path

Germany, as the host nation, automatically qualified for the Nations League Finals. They will face Portugal in the first semi-final on June 4th in Munich. The winner will advance to the final, which will also be held in Munich, against either Spain or France, who will contest the other semi-final in Stuttgart on June 5th.

Nagelsmann's Expectations

Nagelsmann expressed confidence in his team's ability to compete for the title. "If we reach our top level then we can beat Portugal," he said in an interview with the German FA. "That is our goal. We will do everything possible to reach the final. We want to play the final in Munich."

The Nations League Finals serve as an important test for Germany as they prepare for the upcoming World Cup co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Nagelsmann, who took over as coach in September 2023, recently extended his contract until 2028, signaling a long-term commitment to the national team.

Bayern Munich's Influence

Bayern Munich has a strong presence in the German squad, with five players from the record champions included: Joshua Kimmich, Leroy Sané, Leon Goretzka, Aleksandar Pavlović, and Serge Gnabry. Additionally, Tom Bischof, who will join Bayern next season, is also in the squad. However, Jamal Musiala will miss the tournament due to injury.

A Chance for Redemption

Germany will be looking to use the Nations League Finals as a springboard for future success. After disappointing performances in recent major tournaments, including group stage exits in the past two World Cups, the team is eager to prove that they are back among the world's elite. With a blend of experienced players and promising youngsters, Nagelsmann's squad has the potential to make a deep run in the tournament and give German fans something to cheer about. The home advantage should also provide a significant boost as they aim to lift the trophy in Munich.