FIFA World Cup 2018 – The Contenders: Germany

Allsportspk presents another brand new series as a part of its build up to the FIFA World Cup this summer. In this series, those teams will be covered which Allsportspk panel believes have a strong chance of lifting the prestigious trophy. At the end the Allsporspk panel predictions is also included.

Germany World Cup Performances: 

Legendary Players: 

Squad for the FIFA World Cup 2018: 

It should be noted that this is a preliminary squad which will be reduced to the official squad for the tournament.

Current Manager: 

Joachim Löw 

Analysis: 

Looking at the German squad, one immediately sees an abundance of talent. From back to front, every position is stocked with quality players. Not only that, the current World Champions are blessed with all types of players who can play different roles in the starting lineup. There is also a fantastic mixture of young talent looking to make their mark and older veterans who have achieved everything there is to on the international stage. All in all, it is a very well balanced squad, to say the least. 

Germany have recently favored the 4-2-3-1 system and it has brought them great success. There are a few key roles in this formation. Firstly, the goalkeeper has to be a sweeper-keeper and be alert to opposition threats so that he can deal with them efficiently. The keeper must also be proficient with the ball at his feet and must distribute it well.  

Secondly, the center back pairing must constitute of two types of players: a ball playing defender and an excellent interceptor. This allows the team to build from the back and keep hold of possession. Thirdly, the fullbacks must be absolute workhorses and contribute on both ends of the pitch. At the back, they should be solid and at the front, they should provide width. 

Lastly, the two center midfielders should work in tandem. That means, one of the pair should be a defensive motor while the other should control the tempo of the game. This solid base means that the front four attacking players have a lot more independence and can constantly put the opposition under pressure. This is a perfect formation for the Germans and allows them to use their abilities to their maximum. 

Germany must be fretting over the fitness and match sharpness of Manuel Neuer. The legendary keeper has not played any game this whole season and has been out through injury. The managerial team has placed their confidence in him but they need to be absolutely sure before starting him at the tournament. If fit, Neuer could propel the team to another triumph. If unfit, his starting could backfire greatly.  

Another thing that Germany must do is take the right decision on who to start as striker. Timo Werner offers pace and power but some games may demand the intelligence of Muller. It is crucial that the correct choice is made up front. 

And, as always, the medical staff have to make sure that the team continues their excellent injury-free record as it could make all the difference.