Nagelsmann's Ouédraogo shocker stuns Matthäus

Lothar Matthäus stunned by Nagelsmann's Ouédraogo call

Julian Nagelsmann has surprised even Lothar Matthäus with his latest roster move. After Lennart Karl was ruled out with a torn muscle fiber, the Germany coach called up RB Leipzig's Assan Ouédraogo instead of a like-for-like replacement.

Matthäus didn't hold back: "Yes, surprising for me, too, because it wasn't a like-for-like change in the end. They've brought in an attacking midfielder. For someone who has qualities up front. But Julian Nagelsmann certainly had his reasons." (5)

Karl's absence leaves a gap in the squad ahead of the World Cup. Matthäus said the Bayern Munich youngster "did very well" and believes this setback "can make him stronger," adding: "It shocked me and I feel very sorry for the lad. It's also a major sporting loss for Julian Nagelsmann and the team." (3)

Karl's injury opens the door for Ouédraogo

The decision to bring Ouédraogo rather than a defensive option has raised eyebrows. Nagelsmann passed over names like Said El Mala, Joshua Kimmich, Waldemar Anton, Josha Vagnoman, and Ridle Baku, who could have filled Karl's profile more directly. (5)

Ouédraogo now gets his chance on the biggest stage.

Laimer close to Bayern extension

Konrad Laimer and Bayern Munich are deep in contract talks. Christian Falk and Heiko Niedderer report the two sides are "very, very far along" and an agreement may already be in place, with Uli Hoeneß playing a major role in the development. (4)

Arsenal tracking Leverkusen's Maza

Arsenal will be watching Bayer Leverkusen's Ibrahim Maza at the World Cup. Manchester City and Liverpool are also interested in the young talent. (1)

Germany's World Cup group set

Germany head into the 2026 World Cup with Curaçao, Ecuador, and Côte d'Ivoire in their group. Full squad coverage includes Marco Reus, Joshua Kimmich, Deniz Undav, and the now-injured Lennart Karl. (2)