Germany Prepares Tactical Lineup and Considers Neuer's Return Ahead of Luxembourg World Cup Qualifier
Germany's coach Nagelsmann outlines possible lineup adjustments, including goalkeeper changes, ahead of crucial Luxembourg qualifier while keeping Neuer's return open.
- • Key players like Ter Stegen and Rüdiger remain injured; Baumann is fit to play
- • Nagelsmann undecided on three or four-man defense; Schlotterbeck returns to defense
- • Midfield features Kimmich and Pavlovic; Woltemade could start after illness
- • Nagelsmann leaves door open for Manuel Neuer's potential national team comeback
Key details
As Germany gears up for their World Cup qualifier against Luxembourg on October 10, 2025, head coach Julian Nagelsmann faces lineup challenges due to key player injuries. Notably, Marc-Andre ter Stegen, Antonio Rüdiger, Jamal Musiala, and Kai Havertz remain sidelined, but goalkeeper Oliver Baumann has recovered from a brief illness and is available for selection. Nagelsmann has yet to finalize whether to deploy a three or four-man defense after the 0-2 loss to Slovakia, with Nico Schlotterbeck expected to rejoin Jonathan Tah in central defense. On the flanks, David Raum is likely to start on the left, with Ridle Baku covering the right due to Jamie Leweling's injury.
In midfield, captain Joshua Kimmich will partner with Aleksandar Pavlovic, supported by Florian Wirtz and Serge Gnabry. The front line may feature Nick Woltemade, who has recovered from illness and could start pending Nagelsmann's fitness assessment.
Additionally, Nagelsmann commented on goalkeeper Manuel Neuer's potential return to the national team. While praising the current goalkeepers, he noted that "in football, everything is possible," leaving the door open for Neuer's comeback.
This tactical preparation comes as Germany seeks vital points in UEFA World Cup qualifying Group G, facing Luxembourg at the PreZero-Arena in Sinsheim. The match is crucial as teams strive for qualification to the 2026 World Cup.