Nagelsmann: ' Ter Stegen holds out hope for World Cup spot'

Despite a recent injury, goalkeeper Marc-Andre Ter Stegen still holds a slim hope of participating in the 2026 World Cup, according to Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann, in an interview with 'Kicker', cited by 'Diario AS'. The German coach stressed that the situation is delicate and the goalkeeper's participation is not yet completely ruled out, despite the scenario being "very tight."

"It is, of course, an extremely tragic situation for Marc that something so dramatic resulted from such a simple action as a normal pass," Nagelsmann stated, recalling Ter Stegen's growing role in the national team before successive muscular injuries compromised his continuity. With Manuel Neuer's retirement, the goal seemed destined for Ter Stegen, but a sequence of setbacks delayed his ascent.

The coach further explained that the margin of hope exists, but it is limited: "The door is not yet completely closed, but it will be very tight".