- Nagelsmann plotting a surprise change
- Could bench Wirtz against Denmark
- Fullkrug might pair up with Havertz
WHAT HAPPENED?
According to Sky Germany, despite Germany’s solid start to the tournament, the former Bayern Munich manager is considering dropping one of his brightest young stars, Wirtz, in favour of a more experienced and physically imposing front line. The 21-year-old prodigy from Bayer Leverkusen scored Germany’s opening goal of the tournament against Scotland and entered the summer as one of the most promising young talents in global football. Despite his early contributions, Wirtz’s performances have waned slightly, particularly in matches against Hungary and Switzerland, leading Nagelsmann to consider his exclusion from the starting lineup.
.jpg?resize=640%2C360&ssl=1)
THE BIGGER PICTURE
Arsenal’s Kai Havertz has been deployed as Germany’s No. 9 throughout the tournament. On the other hand, Niclas Fullkrug, who has been used primarily as a substitute, boasts an impressive record with two goals in just 73 minutes of play. This has sparked a debate on who should lead Germany’s attack. The solution Nagelsmann is pondering might be to start both players, with Havertz in a deeper role as a No. 10 and Fullkrug as the central striker – which means Wirtz needs to be sacrificed.
DID YOU KNOW?
Nagelsmann believes this tactical shift would provide Germany with a more robust attacking option. It would also likely see Ilkay Gundogan and Jamal Musiala, both in fine form, retain their positions in the midfield – a key aspect to lend balance to the German side in transitions.
.jpg?resize=640%2C360&ssl=1)
WHAT NEXT FOR GERMANY?
In the lead-up to Saturday’s match, Nagelsmann is expected to utilise the remaining training sessions to finalise his strategy and ensure his team is well-prepared. Denmark, who managed a resilient 1-1 draw against England, will pose a significant challenge and the manager believes that the tactical tweak would help his men to slice open the Danes.
