At first glance, the answer seems obvious. Germany has already secured first place in Group E after victories over Curaçao and Ivory Coast, meaning there is little at stake in the final group-stage match against Ecuador. Under those circumstances, giving Oliver Baumann a start would appear to make plenty of sense. Germany would protect a 40-year-old goalkeeper, reward a veteran who helped the team qualify, and avoid an unnecessary injury risk before the knockout rounds.
However, the latest reports
suggest that Julian Nagelsmann is expected to stick with Manuel Neuer rather than hand Baumann his first World Cup appearance of the tournament. That would not be entirely surprising given the coach’s decision to bring Neuer out of international retirement specifically to be Germany’s No. 1 goalkeeper at this World Cup. Nagelsmann has consistently backed Neuer as his first choice, and the Bayern Munich captain remains one of the squad’s most important leaders.
There is also an argument for maintaining rhythm. Germany has looked sharp through two matches, and Neuer has not played much international football over the last two years. Keeping him in goal could help preserve continuity heading into the Round of 32, where the level of competition will increase dramatically.
Still, many supporters would probably prefer to see Baumann rewarded with a start. Germany can afford the rotation, and one match of rest could be valuable for a goalkeeper who is playing in the final tournament of an extraordinary international career.
What do you think? Should Nagelsmann protect Neuer and start Baumann, or keep Germany’s No. 1 in goal to maintain momentum?
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