The 2026 World Cup in the USA, Canada and Mexico is drawing closer, and with it comes the great guessing game about the final DFB squad of national team coach Julian Nagelsmann. While regular players like Joshua Kimmich, Florian Wirtz, Jamal Musiala or Kai Havertz seem to be set, there are some players in the extended circle who are drawing attention with convincing performances and could well count on a ticket to North America. We take a look at the most exciting surprise candidates.
One hot name is Maximilian Beier from Borussia Dortmund. The 22-year-old striker has established himself in the Bundesliga after his move from Hoffenheim and impresses with pace, finishing ability and tactical flexibility. Should Nagelsmann want to rely on another mobile striker, Beier could become a serious option – especially since Niclas Füllkrug has recently been dealing with injury concerns.
A battle for places is also developing in defensive midfield. Aleksandar Pavlović from FC Bayern Munich has proven his versatility and is regarded as a safe ball handler with great game understanding. After overcoming injury setbacks, the young Munich player wants to finally make the leap into the A national team. The same applies to Angelo Stiller from VfB Stuttgart, who is crying out for recognition with his vision and passing quality.
In defence, one name could cause a stir: Nathaniel Brown from Eintracht Frankfurt. The left-back has developed into one of the most exciting German talents in this position in a very short time and offers a genuine alternative to the established David Raum. His pace and attacking presence fit perfectly with Nagelsmann's playing philosophy.
Tom Bischof, who moved from Hoffenheim to FC Bayern in the summer, is also considered a candidate for a surprise nomination. The midfielder impresses with his maturity and technique and could play a role as a flexible option in central midfield. The same applies to Karim Adeyemi, who has recently performed in strong form again after phases of inconsistency and could be a valuable ace up his sleeve with his pace on the wings.
In goal, the hierarchy with Marc-André ter Stegen, Oliver Baumann and Alexander Nübel seems largely settled, but a name like Noah Atubolu from SC Freiburg should not be overlooked