World Cup: Nagelsmann hints at maintaining strong Germany squad against Ecuador
By Joel Masibo, June 25, 2026Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann has indicated that he will not make sweeping alterations to his lineup for the team’s final FIFA World Cup 2026 group-stage encounter against Ecuador on Thursday, June 25, 2026, even though the Germans have already guaranteed qualification for the knockout rounds.
Speaking ahead of the clash in New Jersey on Wednesday, June 24, 2026, Nagelsmann explained that while the technical bench had weighed the possibility of resting several players, maintaining momentum remained a priority after Germany’s limited match action so far in the tournament.
“We still have one game that we really want to win, and we want to prepare ourselves for the knockout phase,” he said. “I don’t think it makes much sense to rotate too much,” he said.
Impressive start
Germany heads into the match having collected maximum points from its opening two fixtures. However, the side has been dealt a setback following the injury of defender Nico Schlotterbeck, who will miss the remainder of the competition.
Nagelsmann revealed that experienced center-back Antonio Rudiger is in excellent condition and could feature more prominently against Ecuador.
“His knee is not bothering him and he feels very good,” Nagelsmann said. “He did a great job when he came on in the last match and gave the team a lot.”
The German tactician also expressed admiration for Ecuador’s performances despite the South American side failing to secure the results he believes they deserved in their first two outings.
“I watched both games and I think they should have won them,” he said. “They have to put everything into this match, so they may be a little more offensive than usual.”
Nagelsmann described Ecuador as a disciplined and physically imposing team, noting that they had demonstrated their capabilities during the qualification campaign. He further predicted an energetic atmosphere inside the stadium, with Ecuador coach Sebastian Beccacece suggesting that roughly 55,000 Ecuadorian fans could be present.
“There will be emotions from both sides, and that is good,” Nagelsmann said. “That is what the World Cup should be like.”
Forward Deniz Undav, who has impressed after coming off the bench in Germany’s first two matches, insisted he is content regardless of whether he starts or enters as a substitute.
“Whether I start or come on later does not matter,” Undav said. “The most important thing is that the team wins. I came off the bench twice, and we won both games, so I am very happy.” He added.
Germany’s last two World Cup campaigns ended in disappointment with group-stage exits, but Nagelsmann stressed that his players are focused on the present rather than dwelling on past failures.
“Our journey is not over yet,” he said. “We have to stay humble, remain a good competitor, and keep playing with emotion. Then we will see how far we can go in this tournament.”