Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann has said he will not entirely shut the door on Barcelona goalkeeper Marc‑André ter Stegen being included in the squad for the 2026 World Cup, but conceded that selection would be very difficult. Ter Stegen is currently sidelined after surgery for a torn hamstring, and there is no confirmed timetable for his return.
The injury occurred shortly after the keeper left Barcelona on loan to Girona — a move intended to secure regular playing time and improve his chances of making the tournament in the United States, Mexico and Canada. That aim is now uncertain because of the operation and subsequent recovery period.
Speaking to reporters after the Nations League draw, Nagelsmann explained that out of respect for ter Stegen he won’t completely dismiss him, since it is ultimately the player’s turn to be considered, but he admitted the current outlook is not promising and any choice must make sense for both the player and the team.
The Germany coach said the team must wait to see how the goalkeeper recovers, but stressed there is little margin for error with the World Cup kicking off in June. He described the injury as dramatic and one that needs a lengthy recovery.
Nagelsmann also pointed out the most troubling aspect is the timing and severity when the overall schedule is taken into account, noting that ter Stegen had already missed almost a year previously, which complicates the situation further.
What had been a loan move aimed at restoring match rhythm and boosting ter Stegen’s World Cup prospects is now clouded by his injury setback and the long rehabilitation it requires, leaving both club and international hopes in doubt.
