Bastian Schweinsteiger has selected his ideal Germany World Cup XI, favoring Leon Goretzka over Felix Nmecha for midfield. The lineup reflects his insights as the tournament approaches.
Mentioned in this story
Bastian Schweinsteiger picks his Germany World Cup XI
With this summer’s World Cup fast approaching, Sport Bild asked Germany legend Bastian Schweinsteiger how he would line up at the tournament if he were Julian Nagelsmann.
Notably, the 41-year-old chose Bayern Munich’s Leon Goretzka ahead of Borussia Dortmund’s Felix Nmecha to partner Aleksandar Pavlović in central midfield.
“I see Leon Goretzka there, because Felix Nmecha is still on his way back after his injury,” Schweinsteiger told the German magazine, explaining his decision.
“Leon brings the physicality you need, especially in the United States, where the kick-off times also play a role. You have to be at a very high level in terms of running, just like Leon. They (Goretzka and Pavlović) are two players who are having a strong season at Bayern Munich. Overall, as national team coach, I would of course currently try to rely heavily on Bayern Munich players, because they bring that strong momentum from their club.”
Meanwhile, he sees Stuttgart winger Chris Führich as the most suitable replacement for the long-term injured Serge Gnabry.
“Chris Führich has developed well at Stuttgart. He always brings something that is difficult to defend against,” Schweinsteiger explained, before naming a few other candidates.
Bastian Schweinsteiger has not publicly detailed his entire Germany World Cup XI, but he emphasized including Leon Goretzka in midfield.
Schweinsteiger chose Goretzka because he believes Nmecha is still recovering from an injury.
Julian Nagelsmann is the coach of the Germany national team for the upcoming World Cup.
Makai Lemon's success with the Philadelphia Eagles depends on the new relationship between quarterback Jalen Hurts and offensive coordinator Sean Mannion. The Eagles aim to improve their offense after a challenging season under the previous coordinator.
Arsenal fans created an electrifying atmosphere in London ahead of their Champions League final, marked by red smoke and enthusiastic celebrations. The excitement was palpable as supporters flooded the streets, celebrating their team's significant achievement.
Derek McInnes has made Hearts a strong title contender, leading them to the top of the league.
Don't miss Manchester City vs Brentford live at the Etihad Stadium this Saturday!
Astros' Tatsuya Imai Struggles in MLB, on Rehab for Arm Fatigue
Red Sox may trade Isiah Kiner-Falefa, a $6 million signing, as they struggle in 2026.
See every story in Sports — including breaking news and analysis.
“Another option would be to play Jamie Leweling on the right side. If you want to play more defensively, you could bring in Leweling for Musiala. Lennart Karl made a very, very positive impression in his two international appearances, with his freshness against Switzerland and Ghana (in March).”
Take a look at Schweinsteiger’s preferred Germany starting lineup for the World Cup below:
Oliver Baumann – Joshua Kimmich, Jonathan Tah, Nico Schlotterbeck, David Raum – Leon Goretzka, Aleksandar Pavlović – Jamal Musiala, Florian Wirtz, Chris Führich – Kai Havertz.