Julian Nagelsmann's dilemma: Ensuring playing time for German National Team players
Coach Nagelsmann encounters an issue beyond his self-resolution.
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Julian Nagelsmann, the German national coach, is facing an unusual challenge: ensuring his players get regular playing time in their clubs. While top performers excel, the situation becomes thin behind them. The coach's hands are tied due to the scarcity of flexible goalkeepers, and the looming issue of the World Cup in 2026.
The Goalkeeping situation
Remembering back to the past, the current goalkeeper shortage is a rarity in German football. Even Nagelsmann boasts a collection of inflexible goalkeepers, who can't fill temporary gaps in the squad, even if they're Manuel Neuer. This poses a problem for Nagelsmann, as he must choose between two backup options for the injured Marc-André ter Stegen, both regular club starters.
The Battle for the second goalkeeper spot
Alexander Nübel, currently on loan with VfB Stuttgart from FC Bayern, and Oliver Baumann, a mainstay at TSG Hoffenheim, are the contenders for the second goalkeeper spot. Nagelsmann described making the choice as a "close decision," and despite his initial pick for the Nations League quarter-final against Italy, he warned the squad against complacency. With 15 games remaining until the 2026 World Cup kick-off, regular playing time is essential to ensure the team's peak performance at the tournament.
The Number Three spot: asset or liability?
While the debate between Nübel and Baumann heats up, Nagelsmann must also consider the third goalkeeper. Stefan Ortega, a backup for Manchester City, has the potential to fill this role, but the importance of a third goalkeeper is nearly insignificant. Nagelsmann emphasized that the third goalkeeper must possess additional qualities, such as adaptability, to make an impact.
The heart of the problem: the bench
The problem lies in the abundance of quality players Nagelsmann has on most positions, leaving him unable to push for frequent playtime at the club level. However, the remaining 15 matches until the World Cup offer limited opportunities for experiments. Nagelsmann expects a playing quota of 70-80%, emphasizing the need for his team to play regularly at club level to reach their peak at the 2026 World Cup.
Tragic cases: players facing playing time struggles
One such tragic case is Aleksandar Pavlović, who's been plagued by a lingering viral infection and as a result, misses out on this international window. The 22-year-old, who's ideal for the long-term growth of the DFB team, struggles with a lack of playing time in his young career as injuries and reintegration keep him from consistent starts.
Club loyalty or National Duty?
Nagelsmann recognizes the limitation of his influence on club politics. He can't force clubs to play their players more frequently. Instead, he expects his squad to make themselves indispensable in their clubs through consistent good performances.
Positions of concern: Right-back and Six
Positions of concern include right-back and offensive midfield, where depth remains to be developed. Nagelsmann, who's hopeful that Stuttgart's Angelo Stiller could fill the six role, is seeking a suitable partner. Others in the running include Robert Andrich, Pascal Groß, Felix Nmecha, and potentially even Leon Goretzka, depending on club resolutions.
A blessing: the goalkeepers
With numerous talented goalkeepers at his disposal, Nagelsmann can take solace in the fact that they receive ample playing time at their clubs, ensuring they remain sharp for Germany's duties. Despite the challenges ahead, Nagelsmann will continue to work closely with his players, clubs, and fellow coaches to secure the best possible outcomes for the German National Team.
Sources:- ntv.de
- In order to maintain their form for the upcoming World Cup in 2026, Nagelsmann emphasized the importance of his goalkeepers receiving a playing quota of 70-80%, suggesting that regular club play is crucial for peak performance.
- Justin Kluivert and Florian Wirtz, two promising players in the DFB team, are currently receiving vocational training as part of their community aid initiatives, showcasing a balanced approach towards their football careers and social responsibility.
- Nagelsmann faces a close decision when choosing between Alexander Nübel and Oliver Baumann as his second goalkeeper, while emphasizing the necessity for the third goalkeeper to possess qualities such as adaptability that extend beyond the field.
