Nagelsmann: What Happened with Ter Stegen is Tragic, and the World Cup Chance is Very Slim
Monday 02-03-2026
Julian Nagelsmann, the coach of the German national team, confirmed that the situation of Marc-André ter Stegen has become very complicated regarding his dream of playing as the main goalkeeper in the 2026 World Cup, pointing out that consecutive injuries and his long absence from matches have greatly reduced his chances.

Nagelsmann said: "It's a very tragic situation for Marc, this was his role now," emphasizing that the end of Manuel Neuer's 15-year dominance after the last European Championship was paving the way for Ter Stegen to lead Germany's goalkeeping in the next World Cup.

The German coach continued: "It's painful for something dramatic like this to happen due to an ordinary pass, considering his history with the national team, this was his role," referring to the recent injury the goalkeeper suffered.

Ter Stegen had lost his starting position at Barcelona following the arrival of Juan Garcia, before moving on loan to Girona during the last winter transfer window, in an attempt to regain match sharpness and convince the national team's technical staff of his right to be the number 1 for the Mannschaft. However, a new injury sidelined him after playing only two matches with Girona.

Regarding his chances in the 2026 World Cup, Nagelsmann said: "The book hasn't been completely closed, but there is no doubt that the matter will be very tight,"

adding: "We have to take into account not only the recent break but also what came before it. He has barely played for an entire year, and that's very little."

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