Baumann 'enjoys the flavor' now, according to the report.

Top Form: Baumann Basks in the Glow of Main-Man Status for the National Team

- Baumann demonstrates proficiency, finding comfort in the task at hand.

Now relishing his unexpected leading role’s limelight, 34-year-old Oliver Baumann, a football national team veteran, can't help but feel a sense of triumph. "You bet," he smirked before the Nations League quarter-final rematch against Italy tonight (8:45 PM/RTL) in Dortmund, "I've definitely tasted the damn juice!"

Yet, Baumann isn't blind to his position's precariousness, especially considering the 2026 World Cup's years-away horizon. “That’s reaching too far,” he cautioned.

National coach Julian Nagelsmann, present in Dortmund, has made it clear: Regarding ter Stegen's current injury, the Barcelona goalkeeper remains his top choice for the DFB. “If Marc displays full fitness and form, he'll seize the number one position without fail,” Nagelsmann expressed about the 32-year-old. Ter Stegen, whose career has been plagued by giving his spot to Manuel Neuer in tournaments for years, is expected to be out until summer. “Marc damn deserves a shot at a major tournament," Nagelsmann asserted. "But if he can't play, the goalie spot's up grabs!"

For the moment, Baumann has Alexander Nübel, six years his junior, fierce competition. In his three international games so far, Baumann has maintained a perfect record, claiming wins twice and keeping clean sheets on both occasions. In the 2-1 triumph against Italy in Milan, his performance earned a standing ovation. But, he's adamant about not reading too much into it.

Baumann has been a member of the team under former coach Joachim Löw since 2020. His first DFB game was a memorable one: a 1-0 victory in the Nations League against the Netherlands, snatched in Munich. "I simply stuck it out, taking on every role I was given, hammering the nail into the wooden board," Baumann reminisced, referring to his perseverance. Baumann played third fiddle behind Neuer and ter Stegen during the home European Championship last year. “Now I get to play!” he enthused.

About Oliver Baumann:

Insights:

Baumann's solidified position: After his exceptional performances, he has secured the leading goalie role in the National Team[1][3].
Competition within the National Team: Baumann's position is under close scrutiny, especially from Alexander Nübel[2][3].
Uncertain long-term position: Baumann's long-term hold on the position is uncertain as Marc-André ter Stegen's return is imminent[1][4].
Younger talent emerging: However, younger talents like Jonas Urbig and Noah Atubolo could challenge for the number one spot in the future[1].
Attitude: Baumann's adaptable and appreciative attitude towards his position may be instrumental in maintaining it[4].

Despite his current leading role in the German National Team, Oliver Baumann is aware that his position as the team's goalkeeper might not be secure, considering the upcoming 2026 World Cup and Marc-André ter Stegen's expected recovery.
National coach Julian Nagelsmann has made it clear that, once Marc-André ter Stegen regains full fitness and form, he will be the undisputed number one goalkeeper for the DFB, relegating Oliver Baumann to competition with other goalkeepers such as Alexander Nübel.
Even though Oliver Baumann has been performing exceptionally well in his three international games so far, he acknowledges the presence of younger talents like Jonas Urbig and Noah Atubolo who could potentially challenge for the number one goalkeeper spot in the future.