2026 World Cup: Germany not among the favorites, Julian Nagelsmann explains

Julian Nagelsmann speaks frankly ahead of Germany's opening match

World Cup 2026 Today at 05:54

Joshua SOSSOU

News Editor

2026 World Cup: Germany not among the favorites, Julian Nagelsmann explains

14.06.26 13:00 World Cup

Germany

Curacao

Just hours before Germany kicks off against Curaçao in this 2026 World Cup, Julian Nagelsmann preferred to temper expectations.

Despite a run of nine consecutive victories, Julian Nagelsmann believes the Nationalmannschaft still has to prove itself on the world stage.

Julian Nagelsmann on the Klopp/Müller vs Matthäus discussion around Jamal Musiala: "Jamal is ready for the starting eleven. He still has a few steps to take – but he can only take them if we let him play and give him game time. He simply hasn't had that rhythm for a long time,… pic.twitter.com/e8EUtselFf
— Bayern & Germany (@iMiaSanMia) June 14, 2026

"We haven't performed well in the last two World Cups, so I understand why we're not considered among the favorites. Right now, that's not the point. The point is to beat Curaçao," the German coach explained.

A cautious statement ahead of a tournament where Germany will be aiming to reclaim its status after two consecutive group stage eliminations.