Oliver Baumann expected to be named Germany’s first choice goalkeeper for the 2026 World Cup

In an interview with **kicker, **Germany head coach Julian Nagelsmann has hinted that Oliver Baumann will be the first-choice goalkeeper in the summer.

The Hoffenheim keeper has been the first choice following the retirement of Manuel Neuer after the 2024 Euros, as well as the injury problems of his replacement, Marc-André ter Stegen.

When pushed to answer if Baumann will be number one in the summer, Nagelsmann said:

Later adding:

The 35-year-old has more or less unexpectedly found himself in this position following retirements and injuries, and despite the threat of younger keepers such as Alexander Nübel and talk about a return of Manuel Neuer to the national team, Baumann has continued to maintain his place in the starting 11.

Apart from the Nations League final four, where ter Stegen played, the 35-year-old has been the first-choice keeper for over a year now, and played in every single World Cup qualifier.

GGFN | Jack Meenan