Ter Stegen's World Cup Chances 'Very Slim', Says Nagelsmann

Nagelsmann says Ter Stegen unlikely for World Cup

Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann doubts Marc-Andre Ter Stegen's World Cup participation due to injury woes.

Ter Stegen's injury concerns put Germany's World Cup plans in doubt, says coach Julian Nagelsmann...

Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann says Marc-Andre Ter Stegen's chances of playing in the 2026 World Cup are “very, very, very slim” due to his ongoing recovery from a torn hamstring surgery in February. The 33-year-old goalkeeper, currently on loan at Girona, has been plagued by injuries, including a knee injury and back complaint, making it tough for him to regain match fitness.

Ter Stegen was Germany's number one goalkeeper after Manuel Neuer's retirement in 2024, but his injury woes have opened the door for Oliver Baumann, who has been impressing in his absence. Nagelsmann emphasizes that Ter Stegen needs match practice to be considered for the World Cup squad.

Ter Stegen, 33, had taken over as Germany's number one goalkeeper after Manuel Neuer's retirement but has struggled with injuries, including a knee injury and back complaint. Oliver Baumann has been filling in for Ter Stegen, and Nagelsmann has called up Jonas Urbig and Lennart Karl as potential alternatives.

“The chance is very, very, very slim, because you have to consider the overall situation,” said Nagelsmann.

“He didn't play for a year and then got injured. He's been out for a year, so to speak, and played very little.

“He should give it his all in his rehab... But he's not 21 anymore. He's got a few games under his belt.

“I'm keeping my fingers crossed for him, but we all have to be patient.”

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Marc-Andre Ter Stegen became Germany's number one goalkeeper after Manuel Neuer retired following Euro 2024. Back in February, coach Julian Nagelsmann had named Ter Stegen as Germany's leading goalkeeping candidate for the World Cup. However, Ter Stegen's recent injury setbacks have put his World Cup participation in doubt, with Oliver Baumann stepping in as a viable alternative, as seen in Germany's 4-3 friendly win over Switzerland.