World Cup Preview: Germany’s New Guard

One of the strongest teams of all time at the World Cup are the Germans. With a rich history that is exemplified by their four world cup titles, most recently in 2014, Germany is seeking their fifth star.

Everyone remembers the 2018 tournament where they faltered out in the group stage for the first time after losing to Mexico and being stunned by South Korea in the 90th minute of the games, but we also must remember the time that spanned from 2002-2014 where they finished second, third, third, and as world champions respectively.

Time and time again the Die Mannschaft show that they possess world talent that should never be overlooked. This World Cup, seems to be no different.

Now that most of the 2014 roster is gone, and there is new blood in the team, Germany looks to show what they can do with new blood in the team, along with some of the old looking to redeem themselves after disappointing results in 2018 and 2020 (2021) respectively.

Former Bayern manager Hansi Flick will be at manager, at this year’s Qatar World Cup. Which means that he will be familiar with a plethora of players that he won the 2020 UEFA Champions League with.

In regards to qualifying for the tournament Flick’s side qualified like champions, only losing once to North Macedonia early in the qualification stage, keeping them away from a perfect record, finishing 9-0-1.

Player to Watch: Jamal Musiala

Jamal Musiala is a young and promising forward talent that already is a regular for Bayern Munich. The 19 year old natural winger is able to around the pitch, demonstrating his versatility, but what shines the most about him is the confidence he invokes at such a young age.

In regards to where he stands in the lineup, he realistically is not the best player on the team, but that is not where he should be on an already seasoned German roster. Instead, the fact that he is in the squad and only still a teenager shows the talent he possess. Don’t be surprised if Musiala wins YPOTY.

Best Player: Joshua Kimmich

It seems like just yesterday Kimmich made a name for himself at the 2016 Euros as a 21 year old right back. Six years later, he returns to represent his country as one of the world’s very best players.

Kimmich is able to play in several different positions at a world class level. But he will likely be used in the midfield to provide defense, while also being able to pick out teammates from afar with his world class play making ability.

Something that goes under the radar is his ability to maintain quality throughout the entire game, while also showing up on both ends of it.

How They Line Up

Based off of what Flick wants to do, Germany will likely run with a 4-2-3-1. This way they are able to give themselves defensive stability, while also getting the most talent they can with their team.

Neuer is going to be the man in goal, meanwhile central defenders can be selected between Rudiger, Suele, and Schlotterbeck. Flick has three world class options, to pick from two. Or he can play all three by playing a three back defense, which is something he has decided to do in the past.

Raum and Kehrer are possible full back options along with Klostermann as a substitute

In the midfield, Kimmich will likely be paired with Gundogan, or Goretzka.

In attack, Flick has many options such as: Havertz, Muller, Musiala, Sane, Gnabry, or even Fulkrug.

Expectation:

Given Germany’s quality, I believe that the expectations at minimum should be a top four finish. Are they favorites to win? No, but with their depth, quality, along with a coach with experience with many of the players on the team, they are defiantly contenders for the entire tournament.