‘No control’ - Germany boss sends Nick Woltemade message as Newcastle United star dealt World Cup snub
Nick Woltemade is yet to play a minute at the World Cup but Germany could ring the changes in their final group game.
Julian Nagelsmann has hinted at ringing the changes for Germany’s final Group E clash against Ecuador.
Nick Woltemade - snubbed in the first two fixtures - is desperate for a chance to impress at the World Cup. Newcastle United teammate Malick Thiaw is also yet to feature in North America.
Germany have already guaranteed top spot in the group after beating Ivory Coast on Saturday. That has given Nagelsmann - critical of how the Magpies used Woltemade last season - a chance to rotate.
Julian Nagelsmann on Germany changes
Speaking to German media, Nagelsmann strongly suggested that changes are likely. However, as Deniz Undav bagged a brace from the bench at the weekend, he would be the logical choice to replace Kai Havertz up front.
“We have no control over what happens in the other groups, and trying to pick your route through a tournament is extremely difficult,” he told reporters. “Sooner or later, you are going to face strong opposition.
“The coaching staff and sporting director Rudi Voller will discuss whether we need to make any changes because of the players’ workload. At the same time, we need to stay sharp for the games ahead. We’ll probably try to strike a balance between the two.”
Malick Thiaw opportunity
Nico Schlotterbeck will miss the rest of the tournament after suffering ankle ligament damage. This could present an opportunity for Newcastle star Thiaw to add to his five Germany caps.
The 24-year-old was recalled to the international picture after impressing at St James’ Park. He went to the World Cup as Germany's fifth-choice option at centre-back. Jonathan Tah and Schlotterbeck have been preferred but, with the latter’s fresh setback and changes expected, Nagelsmann may turn to Thiaw.
Antonio Rudiger is likely to be given the nod after replacing Schlotterbeck against Ivory Coast. Thiaw will be battling with Waldemar Anton - if Jonathan Tah is also rested - for the other centre-back position.