Germany news

The German national team kicks off the World Cup year. The national coach’s first squad selection comes as little surprise.

In the summer of 2014, Germany didn’t just win the World Cup on Brazilian soil - they left behind one of the most powerful and unexpected symbols of unity football has ever seen. Beyond the unforgettable 7–1 semi-final victory over the hosts, a match that shocked the world, a red and black jersey came to represent something deeper than victory or defeat: respect, empathy, and an unlikely bond between two footballing nations. This is Icons, a GOAL feature and podcast series that revisits the last 10 World Cups through the moments, characters, and controversies that defined them, bringing the spirit of each tournament back to life.

Despite a long spell on the sidelines due to injury, Jamal Musiala is one of the DFB team’s main hopes for the World Cup. However, he is now set to miss some key friendlies.

Hardly any other player embodies VfB Stuttgart’s meteoric rise under manager Sebastian Hoeneß – from relegation candidates to a top-flight club – more than Maximilian Mittelstädt. Yet this summer, the success story faces a bittersweet conclusion.

USMNT manager Mauricio Pochettino revealed that Noahkai Banks declined the opportunity to represent the USMNT this March, as the highly rated center back is still trying to determine his international future. The teenager, who has become a regular for Augsburg this season, can play for both Germany and the United States - and is yet to declare who he will represent.

In a GOAL exclusive, Timo Werner explains his move to San Jose, his evolving role beyond goals, and why MLS came at the right time.

Pierre Littbarski, the 1990 World Cup winner, has spoken out clearly against Leroy Sané being selected for the World Cup.

The 2014 World Cup winner ended his international career four years later – much to the disappointment of the national team manager.

What can the German team expect before the World Cup kicks off in the summer? SPOX has all the information!

Former national player Michael Ballack has been highly critical of former national coach Joachim Löw regarding his serious injury in the run-up to the 2010 World Cup.

Chelsea and Germany legend Michael Ballack fought back the tears as he spoke about the death of his 18-year-old son for the first time. The former midfielder's world was turned upside down in 2021 when his son, Emilio, passed away after a tragic quad bike accident during a family holiday in Portugal.

Germany head coach Julian Nagelsmann has sent a clear warning to his squad ahead of the 2026 World Cup, suggesting that high-profile names could be left out of his final selection. As the nation prepares for upcoming friendlies against Switzerland and Ghana later this month, Nagelsmann has indicated that club status will not guarantee a seat on the plane to North America, emphasising that team chemistry and specific tactical profiles will take precedence over reputation.

Noahkai Banks says he is "very torn" over his international future as he considers his opportunities with the U.S. men's national team and Germany. The teenage defender was in USMNT camp in the fall but did not earn a cap and remains eligible for either national team. Banks has also featured on various U.S. youth teams since 2023.