March 31, 2026
Germany ended March with encouraging friendlies, beating Switzerland and Ghana, and now faces the final task of trimming the squad to 26 with under two months until the World Cup. Julian Nagelsmann’s core selections look largely settled, but the most recent international window produced clear standouts and some underwhelming outings that could shift the last places.
Winners
– Kai Havertz — Approaching 60 caps, Havertz has re-established himself after a lengthy injury absence. His fitness and form returned at the right moment: incisive combination play against Switzerland and a confident, roaring penalty versus Ghana suggest he’s back to influencing games. He appears set for a starting role.
– Florian Wirtz — All but assured of a spot, the 22-year-old underscored his importance with two goals and two assists in Basel and another influential display in Stuttgart. With Jamal Musiala absent this break, Wirtz demonstrated he can both create and finish chances on his own, cementing his value to the attack.
– Lennart Karl — The 18-year-old Bayern playmaker caught the eye after a brief substitute appearance in Basel and an explosive performance in Stuttgart. His pressing, dribbling and directness — combined with a willingness to work defensively — offer Nagelsmann a dynamic option. He missed a chance to score but showed the temperament and energy that make him a strong candidate for the squad.
– Nathaniel Brown — The 22-year-old Eintracht left-back delivered a composed hour against Ghana and helped ease concerns at left-back. With David Raum yet to make the position his own, Brown’s competent showing should have put him in contention for at least a squad role and the opportunity for more minutes in the lead-up to the tournament.
Losers
– Angelo Stiller — Given an opportunity amid injuries, Stiller started both matches but failed to seize the moment. He often looked hesitant on the ball and was slow to close down for Switzerland’s opener. With Pascal Groß making a persuasive case in Stuttgart, Stiller may have shown that the World Cup is still a step too soon.
– Nico Schlotterbeck — The Dortmund centre-back started both games and remains part of the favored pairing with Jonathan Tah, but his displays were mixed. Sloppy build-up play against Switzerland and only marginal improvement in Stuttgart leave questions. He should make the trip, but his form may have reminded Nagelsmann why Antonio Rüdiger is still viewed as an important defensive backup.
– Nick Woltemade — The Newcastle striker arrived hoping to regain confidence but failed to take his opportunities. A brief appearance in Switzerland was unproductive, and in Stuttgart he missed a clear first-half chance before striking the bar. He’s likely to be included in the wider group, but needs to find form quickly to secure a prominent role.
Edited by: Matt Pearson