Germany are set to begin their 2026 World Cup campaign against Curacao in Houston, with Julian Nagelsmann having a fully fit squad to choose from. The manager is expected to field his strongest possible lineup for the Group E opener.
Manuel Neuer Set for Return
Goalkeeper Manuel Neuer is anticipated to be available after recovering from a calf injury sustained in Bayern Munich's final Bundesliga match. The injury forced him to miss friendlies against Finland and the United States. Oliver Baumann had deputized in his absence, but Neuer has returned to full training and is likely to start, having reversed his retirement decision after Euro 2024.
Defensive Setup
Captain Joshua Kimmich is expected to feature at right-back, despite excelling in central midfield for Bayern this season. He will likely be joined by Jonathan Tah, Nico Schlotterbeck, and Nathaniel Brown in defence.
Midfield and Attack
In midfield, Aleksandar Pavlovic is set to partner Felix Nmecha, providing support to the attacking trio of Florian Wirtz, Jamal Musiala, and Leroy Sane. Kai Havertz is expected to lead the line as striker, having scored in the Champions League final loss to Paris Saint-Germain and opening the scoring in Germany's friendly win over the USA.
Predicted Germany XI
Neuer; Kimmich, Tah, Schlotterbeck, Brown; Nmecha, Pavlovic; Sane, Musiala, Wirtz; Havertz
Match Details
- Time and date: 6pm BST on Sunday, June 14, 2026
- How to watch: ITV
- Venue: NRG Stadium, Houston
Nagelsmann has no fresh injury concerns, with only Bayern youngster Lennart Karl ruled out due to a muscle tear suffered before the tournament. Germany aim to start strongly after previous poor World Cup performances.
