Shkodran Mustafi was not even supposed in Brazil in 2014, but as things turned out, Germany was glad he could make it. Like just about everyone on that squad, he found a way to contribute even through some adversity.
Shkodran Mustafi’s role in 2014
Mustafi was one of the surprise stories of Germany’s World Cup squad. Originally called up after Marco Reus suffered a pre-tournament injury, Mustafi was expected to provide depth rather than start. However, he played in Germany’s opening match against Portugal and impressed with his
versatility and work rate. Unfortunately, his tournament was cut short when he suffered a thigh injury in the Round of 16 against Algeria. Although he missed the remainder of the competition, he still earned a World Cup winner’s medal.
What is Shkodran Mustafi doing now?
Mustafi retired from professional football in 2024 at just 32-years-old after injury problems and a difficult final stretch of his club career. He immediately moved into coaching with the German Football Association, first as an assistant coach for the U-17 national team before being promoted to an assistant role with Germany’s U-21s in 2025.
Many younger fans remember Mustafi for his years at Arsenal, but in Germany he is increasingly viewed as one of several 2014 World Cup winners beginning the transition into coaching and player development.
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