Julian Nagelsmann explains roster omissions despite rumored desire for dominant aerial striker
Germany’s striker options are set.
STUTTGART, GERMANY - MARCH 30: Kai Havertz of Germany celebrates his 1-0 penalty goal with Nick Woltemade of Germany during the international friendly match between Germany and Ghana at MHP Arena on March 30, 2026 in Stuttgart, Germany. (Photo by EyesWideOpen/Getty Images) | Getty Images German national team head coach Julian Nagelsmann wanted to have a striker, who could own the airspace in front of goal, but did not selected either Niclas Füllkrug and Tim Kleindienst. During his press conference, explained why those players were omitted from Germany’s roster for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America.
“Leon Goretzka is strong in the air offensively. We also have Kai (Havertz) and Nick (Woltemade), both of whom have good height. Tim (Kleindienst) hasn’t played all year.
He thrives on his freshness and work rate. I would have liked to have him with us, but after his long injury layoff, we simply couldn’t. Regarding Fülle, it’s his scoring record.
He hasn’t scored many goals in the past two years,” Nagelsmann said (as captured by @iMiaSanMia ). Havertz and Woltemade will battle it out for the starting striker role and both could make a strong case in training camp. Nagelsmann has seemed to have an affinity for Havertz over the years, so the Arsenal man could be the frontrunner for the job.