Former Germany international Bastian Schweinsteiger has offered a cautious outlook for the DFB team ahead of the 2026 World Cup, stating that they are not among the top contenders for the title. The tournament, set to begin in one month across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, marks another chance for Germany to reclaim past glory.
Schweinsteiger, who famously lifted the World Cup trophy in 2014 after a grueling final against Argentina, believes the current squad still has work to do. “If we consistently performed at a high level for 95 minutes, then we would be among the favorites. Reaching the semifinals would be a great achievement after all these years, but it will be a long road,” he said in an interview with ARD.
The 2014 hero’s skepticism contrasts with recent optimism from his former teammate Philipp Lahm, who in an exclusive interview with BR24Sport set the semifinals as a clear target for the team.
Germany’s campaign kicks off on June 14 against Curaçao. When asked if the team is already in World Cup form, Schweinsteiger replied, “We have a foundation. If Julian Nagelsmann can recreate the team spirit and bring back the ambition, motivation, tenacity, willpower, and resilience, we can be competitive.”
Criticism of head coach Julian Nagelsmann has been growing. His frequent lineup changes and handling of Stuttgart striker Deniz Undav have drawn negative attention, including from Bayern Munich’s honorary president Uli Hoeneß. Schweinsteiger commented, “He is still searching for the ideal lineup. He is very strict and direct. Sometimes he has corrected himself and presented a different approach. He could be a bit calmer and more relaxed about it — that quality has always distinguished great coaches.”
Calm and composure will be crucial in the fight for the title. Only then can Germany hope to see another World Cup trophy held aloft by a national team player.