The Germany lineup that should start against France at Euro 2020
Having been humiliated at both the World Cup and Nations League in 2018, Germany have something to prove this summer.
Their quest for redemption will start in perhaps the toughest way possible against reigning world champions France, so Joachim Low will need all his big guns firing if he wants to make a statement in this one.
Here’s how the boss should line up.
Manuel Neuer (GK) – Neuer’s position as Germany’s starter has never been so secure. With Bernd Leno and Kevin Trapp the other options, it’s a no-brainer to keep Neuer involved.
Antonio Rudiger (CB) – After spending the last few months looking like one of the best centre-backs around under Thomas Tuchel, expect Rudiger to play a major role this summer.
Niklas Sule (CB) – We might not know where Sule will be playing his club football next year, but he could add an extra zero to his price tag with a big performance here.
Mats Hummels (CB) – After a few years out of the international scene, Hummels is back and will need to bring his experience to help the team rebuild their reputation.
Joshua Kimmich (RM) – An injury to Lukas Klostermann means Kimmich will likely return to the right side, the position in which he made his name in the first place.
Ilkay Gundogan (CM) – Leon Goretzka is not yet fit, meaning Gundogan’s spot in the starting lineup is almost certain.
Toni Kroos (CM) – In what could be his final European Championship, Kroos will be desperate to lift the trophy for one more time.
Robin Gosens (LM) – This wing-back spot is perfectly suited for Gosens, whose status as a starter for his country is long overdue.
Serge Gnabry (RW) – Don’t read much into the positions of these three as they will all spend time in every area of the forward line. The first part of the fluid three-headed monster is Gnabry, whose record of 16 goals in 21 games for his nation is ridiculous.
Kai Havertz (ST) – It’s Havertz’s movement which will open the space for his teammates. The Chelsea man was just finding his groove towards the end of the season and will hope that carries over to the Euros.
Thomas Muller (LW) – Like Hummels, Muller is back in the Germany setup to provide some much-needed experience and quality. He might have a ridiculous record at the World Cup, but Muller is still looking for his first Euros goal.