Germany have been out of action for months now, but as the March international break is approaching, excitement is starting to build. 2024 was an excellent year for German football and 2025 could surely follow. With the UEFA Nations League quarter-finals approaching, I took on the task to predict Julian Nagelsmann’s starting lineup.

Goalkeeper: Alexander Nübel

Not everyone’s first choice for the first pick, however, Julian Nagelsmann is reportedly planning on naming Nübel as his starter for the upcoming window. My personal preference Hoffenheim’s Oliver Baumann.

Honorable mention: Noah Atubolu

Defense: Maximilian Mittelstädt – Jonathan Tah – Antonio Rüdiger – Joshua Kimmich

This defensive line is a safe bet, with Tah over Schlotterbeck being the only real toss-up. While David Raum and Maximilian Mittelstädt competed for minutes at Euro 2024, the Stuttgart defender’s exceptional performance this season should secure him this starting role.

Honorable mention: Nico Schlotterbeck

Midfield: Pascal Groß – Julian Brandt – Angelo Stiller

This midfield makes the most sense at this point as Aleksandar Pavlović might not be deemed match fit compared to the other selections here. Pascal Groß and Angelo Stiller are both having great seasons, while Julian Brandt will benefit from Kai Havertz and Florian Wirtz being unavailable.

Honorable mention: Tom Bischof

Attack: Jamal Musiala – Jonathan Burkardt – Leroy Sané

Jamal Musiala and Florian Wirtz have been incredible in this Nations League tournament this far, but will have to wait until the second leg to team up together. When Florian Wirtz is available for the second leg, he will be expected to start over Sané. With Kai Havertz and Niclas Füllkrug out injured, there’s no better option at the moment than Jonathan Burkardt. Don’t be surprised if you see Tim Kleindienst starting one of the two matches.

Honorable mention: Nick Woltemade

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