Germany Coach Eyes Strong Squad for World Cup

Julian Nagelsmann's World Cup Plans Taking Shape

Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann has already identified over a dozen players for the World Cup squad, with the team currently topping their qualifying group following victories over Luxembourg and Northern Ireland.

“We have to see the development within the teams they play for...”

Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann believes his team is making encouraging progress in the World Cup qualifiers. After securing wins over Luxembourg and Northern Ireland, Germany sits at the top of their qualifying group.

Nagelsmann has already identified over a dozen players for the potential World Cup squad. With Nick Woltemade's winning goal against Northern Ireland, the team's confidence is growing. Germany's next matches are against Luxembourg on November 14 and Slovakia three days later.

Despite injury absences, including Antonio Rudiger, Niclas Fullkrug, and Benjamin Henrichs, Nagelsmann is satisfied with the team's progress. He emphasized that they have taken steps forward as a team and are focused on securing qualification for the World Cup.

The Netherlands currently tops Group A with nine points, thanks to a better goal difference than Slovakia, who secured a 2-0 win over Luxembourg. Northern Ireland trails behind in third place with six points. The group winner will automatically qualify for the World Cup finals, while the runner-up will advance to the playoffs.

“Obviously, we already have the squad ahead of the World Cup in our heads,” Nagelsmann said. “But the first thing is the qualification.

“We have to see the development within the teams they play for. Fifteen or 16 players have now been together for about two years. So a certain squad structure is identifiable,” he said.

Nick Woltemade has scored his first goal for Germany, and gives Julian Nagelsmann's side the lead against Northern Ireland. pic.twitter.com/d4mHHCQmMf

— The Athletic | Football (@TheAthleticFC) October 13, 2025

Germany's journey to the 2026 World Cup hasn't been without its challenges, with key players like Jamal Musiala, Marc-Andre ter Stegen, and Kai Havertz sidelined due to injuries. Despite these setbacks, coach Julian Nagelsmann remains optimistic about his team's progress.

“We have done more than in the weeks before. We have talked with the players. We have taken steps forward as a team,” Nagelsmann said, highlighting the team's growth and resilience in the face of adversity. With Antonio Rudiger, Niclas Fullkrug, and Benjamin Henrichs also dealing with injuries, Nagelsmann's words offer reassurance that Germany remains focused on their World Cup goals.

Germany's upcoming fixtures will put their determination to the test. They face Luxembourg on November 14, followed by a home match against Slovakia three days later. These matches will be crucial in determining Germany's fate in the World Cup qualifiers.