Julian Nagelsmann: 'If Ter Stegen is fit, he's still Germany's No.1'
Julian Nagelsmann had barely made Marc-Andre ter Stegen Germany’s first-choice goalkeeper when the Barcelona shot-stopper suffered a serious knee injury. Months later, with Ter Stegen still recovering, Nagelsmann had to rethink the goalkeeper hierarchy.
Oliver Baumann and Alexander Nubel shared duties in the autumn, but Nagelsmann confirmed Baumann as Germany’s No. 1 for the March friendlies against Italy. After Baumann’s strong display in the 2-1 win, questions arose about the long-term pecking order, especially looking ahead to the 2026 World Cup.
Nagelsmann clarified: "If Marc is fit and performing at 100 percent, he will be the No. 1. But that’s the condition." Ter Stegen has resumed training but still needs time. "It was a serious injury, and we’ll see how he progresses in the short and long term. If he’s not fit, the battle for No. 1 is open."
For now, Baumann holds the spot, but Nagelsmann emphasized the decision was only for these two matches. He also expressed his hopes for Ter Stegen’s recovery: "He deserves a chance at a major tournament. Now we give him time and see what happens."
Baumann, meanwhile, remains humble: "I accept any role—whether supporting Marc and Manu at the Euros or playing now. I just work hard and appreciate the opportunity to play."
