Top News

Two goals and one assist – Deniz Undav is making an undeniable case for a starting spot in the World Cup, leaving Germany’s head coach Julian Nagelsmann with a rather pleasant selection puzzle.

With his usual cheeky smile, Undav spoke about his “problem area”. The sharp striker mentioned that he felt a slight pain in his “lower buttock” and, in his relaxed manner, explained his recovery plan: “Sit down less.”

Putting that plan into action, however, won’t be easy. Undav is set to travel with the German national squad on a Lufthansa flight to the United States on Tuesday afternoon, but he already has a plan for the long journey: “Just lie down.”

The Stuttgart forward, who had been criticised by Julian Nagelsmann as recently as March, appeared in high spirits. His chances of earning a starting place for the World Cup have improved significantly after his two goals and one assist in Germany’s 4-0 (1-0) victory over Finland. “If you score two and set up one, you’re not likely to play yourself out of the team,” remarked Nagelsmann.

Riding the high from that performance, Undav described the night in Mainz as “a ten out of ten”, saying he was simply doing his “job”. “It couldn’t have gone better,” he added.

Despite Undav’s strong showing, Kai Havertz is expected to remain Nagelsmann’s first-choice striker, with Undav positioned as the main backup option.

In the previous Bundesliga season, Undav finished as the top German scorer with 19 goals. For the national team, he now boasts six goals in eight appearances. “I’ve always had confidence,” Undav said. “I just want to enjoy this moment and keep going.” Ultimately, he added, team selection rests with the coach.

Nagelsmann is now fully aware of Undav’s capabilities. When the game against second-tier Finland grew challenging in the first half, Undav rose to meet Joshua Kimmich’s cross with a textbook header, giving Germany a crucial lead. For the third goal, he once again showed his finishing skills, converting a perfect assist from Lennart Karl. “We need players who can finish chances. He did that very well,” Nagelsmann praised.

The battle for attacking spots, though, remains tough. Undav has moved ahead of Nick Woltemade, who only featured as a late substitute, yet Kai Havertz—expected to join the squad in Chicago after the Champions League final—still seems to be Nagelsmann’s top pick. “We need Kai; his goal in the Champions League final was outstanding,” said Nagelsmann, adding, “You could see his value—his defensive effort and his tremendous heading ability, particularly from set pieces.”

Undav recognises the competition in the frontline. “We’ve got three excellent strikers. Whoever starts deserves it,” he commented. The forward will turn 30 on 19 July, coinciding with the date of the World Cup final.

He was clear about where he wanted the real celebration to take place: “The World Cup excitement is building every day, but the tournament will only truly be successful if we win it,” he said, flashing his trademark mischievous grin once again.