Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann has made some key decisions for the upcoming Nations League matches, naming a squad that features both familiar faces and fresh talent. One of the biggest talking points is the selection of Oliver Baumann as the starting goalkeeper. With Marc-Andre ter Stegen sidelined due to a knee injury, Baumann gets his chance to make his debut for the national team. The Hoffenheim shot-stopper was previously called up to the squad in 2020 but is yet to make an appearance.
This selection is particularly significant considering the recent retirement of long-time German goalkeeper Manuel Neuer. While reports suggested that Baumann could share goalkeeping duties with Stuttgart’s Alexander Nuebel, Nagelsmann clarified that Baumann will be the starting keeper for both matches. ‘He’s our number one and it’ll stay that way,’ Nagelsmann stated.
Other notable inclusions in the squad include the return of experienced players Serge Gnabry and Antonio Rudiger. Gnabry is back after recovering from an injury that kept him out of the Euro 2024 tournament, while Rudiger returns after being rested following Germany’s quarterfinal exit at the tournament.
Adding to the excitement, Nagelsmann has also handed a first call-up to 29-year-old Borussia Mönchengladbach striker Tim Kleindienst. He replaces the injured Niclas Fullkrug in the 23-man squad. Kleindienst has been in good form for his club and will be looking to make a strong impression on the international stage.
This squad selection reflects Nagelsmann’s continued focus on selecting players based on form rather than reputation. This approach has seen him bring in players from lesser-known clubs in recent times, and this squad is no exception.
Germany will face Bosnia and Herzegovina away on October 11th, followed by a home match against the Netherlands on October 14th. These Nations League matches offer Germany a chance to gain valuable experience and build momentum ahead of the upcoming Euro 2024 qualifiers.
