Germany's group-stage exit in Qatar — their second consecutive first-round elimination — triggered a complete rebuild. Hansi Flick was replaced, a new generational talent pool has emerged, and the 2024 Euro hosted in Germany gave the team crucial tournament experience (reaching the quarterfinals before losing to Spain). Jamal Musiala and Florian Wirtz are the centrepieces of a genuinely exciting new era.
Musiala (Bayern) is one of the world's most technical dribblers at just 22. Wirtz (Bayer Leverkusen/Real Madrid) provides creativity and goals from midfield. Kai Havertz adds a goal threat from deeper positions. The defence, rebuilt around Schlotterbeck and Rudiger (Real Madrid), is significantly more reliable than the 2022 vintage.
Germany are no longer automatic contenders but are dangerous. With a favourable draw, a semifinal run is achievable. The young squad's ceiling is higher than their current world ranking suggests — they may be the tournament's most improved team. Odds: 12/1, which may prove generous if Musiala and Wirtz fire together.
Germany (including West Germany) have won the World Cup 4 times: 1954, 1974, 1990 and 2014. They have also been runners-up 4 times and semifinalists many more.
Jamal Musiala is widely considered Germany's standout talent. Born in 2003, he will be 22 at the 2026 World Cup and already has Champions League experience with Bayern Munich.