The squad of the German national team for the 2022 World Cup has been decided. The assessment of the ARD experts Thomas Broich, Almuth Schult and Thomas Hitzlsperger.
It is now clear which German players are allowed to travel to Qatar for the World Cup. For national goalkeeper Almuth Schult, this is a strong squad: “I’m excited and looking forward to it.” Thomas Hitzlsperger is also satisfied with Hansi Flick’s selection: “There are many good players. There are very tough decisions, but also many that are very understandable.”
Surprises in attack and midfield
The experts particularly like the quality on the offensive. Thomas Broich is pleased that performance and form have been rewarded. This is also reflected in what may be the biggest surprises: “Niclas Füllkrug in particular is a player who really deserves it”, says Schult. Broich is happy to have another type of player in front – a crusher – with Füllkrug.
Broich also raves about Youssoufa Moukoko and Mario Götze: “Wonderful footballers who can operate in a tight space and be difference players.” For Almuth Schult, Moukoko’s nomination is a good decision: “When you get experience with the national team early on – whether you play or not – it’s important for character development.” There is no substitute for tournament experience.
With players like Musiala, Müller or Gündogan, Thomas Hitzlsperger sees the midfield as highly occupied. You need quality to score goals, but also players like Joshua Kimmich to protect the defence: “The defense was vulnerable and there are decisions that might need to be discussed.”
Defensive concerns
For Thomas Broich, the defense is the weakest part of the team – with the exception of the goalkeepers: “To be completely honest, with Antonio Rüdiger we only have one top defender at a top international club.” Thomas Hitzlsperger also thinks that you have to rely on good teamwork in defence.
Almuth Schult is surprised by Hansi Flick’s decision not to take Mats Hummels with him. She didn’t expect that, said the national player.
Little surprise in goal
“We don’t have to talk long about the goalkeepers either,” says Thomas Hitzlsperger. “This is world class.” In recent weeks there has been speculation as to whether four goalkeepers will travel to Qatar.
But Flick stays with three goalkeepers. The right decision, says Schult: “Because you don’t usually need four goalkeepers. If you take one more outfield player with you, you have more flexibility in that regard.”
“It takes four very special weeks”
The squad has a higher quality in midfield and attack than on defense – the experts agree on that. Thomas Hitzlsperger says that the team is well put together and has chances of success.
“But it’s not absolute world class in all parts of the team,” according to the sports show expert. “If we manage to stand together better than we did in Russia four years ago and overcome difficult moments, then I have a lot of confidence in the team.”