Haji Wright's lack of international minutes in the build up to and at the World Cup is "baffling", says BBC Radio CWR's Rob Gurney. The United States international featured 40 times for Frank Lampard's Championship-winning side in 2025-26, scoring 17 goals and contributing one assist. "Haji Wright didn't get a single minute in the United States v Paraguay game," Gurney said.
Martin joins Leicester after relegation to League OneEx-Gil Vicente coach Peixoto replaces Rob EdwardsLeicester have confirmed Russell Martin’s appointment as manager, on the same day as Wolves unveiled César Peixoto as head coach, replacing Rob Edwards.The two Midlands clubs were relegated from the Championship and the Premier League respectively last season and have moved quickly to restructure their setup, with Martin joining Leicester eight months after his nightmare 123-day stint in charge of Rangers came to an end. Continue reading...
Full preview of Germany for the 2026 World Cup, including squad breakdown, key players, and tactical analysis of their chances. The German national team enters the 2026 tournament in North America aiming to restore its status among the global elite. Following consecutive group-stage exits in 2018 and 2022, expectations for this international soccer teams 2026 contender have shifted from guaranteed dominance to cautious optimism. Now under the guidance of Julian Nagelsmann, the squad blends seasoned veterans with a dynamic new generation of attacking talent. Ranked 10th globally, the team showcased a strong qualification campaign and a fourth-place Nations League finish. As one of the premier FIFA World Cup 2026 teams, this World Cup 2026 team preview will examine the Germany coach, tactical setup, and the squad depth needed to navigate the upcoming group stage. Team profile Head CoachJulian NagelsmannCaptainJoshua KimmichNicknameDie MannschaftGlobal Ranking10thBest Tournament ResultChampions (1954, 1974, 1990, 2014)Tournament Appearances21Last Appearance2022 How Germany play When examining the Germany tactical analysis, the squad typically utilizes a proactive 4-2-3-1 or a fluid 3-4-2-1 system. The Germany formation emphasizes high-intensity pressing, vertical passing, and rapid transitions. In possession, the team relies heavily on the creative movement of attacking midfielders like Jamal Musiala and Florian Wirtz to break down opposing defenses. Defensively, the squad pairs Antonio Rüdiger and Jonathan Tah as a stable central duo. However, structural gaps on the flanks remain a vulnerability, as seen when opponents utilize low blocks and counter-attacks to exploit space out wide. To address these marginal weaknesses, the coaching staff recently integrated specialist coaches focusing on set-pieces and physical conditioning. This refined tactical approach, balancing aggressive pressing with improved team cohesion, could be the defining factor in whether the squad navigates past the tournament’s elite knockout-stage contenders. Julian Nagelsmann: The coach behind Germany Appointed in September 2023, Julian Nagelsmann is preparing for his debut on the global stage as the Germany coach. Taking over after Hansi Flick’s dismissal, the 38-year-old coach quickly stabilized the national team, leading them to a quarterfinal run at the 2024 European Championship and securing a contract extension through 2028. Julian Nagelsmann, head coach of Germany (Getty Images). Nagelsmann built his reputation as a tactical innovator during successful club stints with Hoffenheim, RB Leipzig, and Bayern Munich. Known for utilizing in-depth data and modern training technology, he favors a high-intensity, adaptable playing style. While previously viewed as highly experimental, his recent focus on team unity over individual egos has restored pride among supporters. His ability to make precise in-game adjustments will be heavily tested as he attempts to guide this historic nation back to the knockout rounds. Key player: Jamal Musiala Operating primarily as a central attacking midfielder for Bayern Munich, Jamal Musiala is the undisputed creative engine for the national team. Since his international debut in 2021, the 23-year-old has accumulated 40 caps and eight goals, evolving into one of the most essential Germany key players. Despite a disrupted club season due to a severe ankle injury, Musiala recovered to help secure domestic silverware, finishing the campaign with five goals in 24 appearances. On the international stage, his elite dribbling and ability to drift into half-spaces make him vital for breaking down rigid defensive blocks. Germany’s road to the 2026 World Cup The squad secured direct entry to the upcoming tournament by dominating UEFA Group A, finishing with five wins in six matches. After suffering a surprising 2-0 defeat to Slovakia in Bratislava, the team responded with five consecutive victories to top their group. They scored 16 goal
