Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann has announced the inclusion of six newcomers in the national team squad for their upcoming friendly internationals against France and Netherlands. Among the fresh faces is Bayern Munich teenager Aleksandar Pavlovic, who has impressed with his performances in midfield this season.
Notable omissions from the squad include Bayern Munich's Leon Goretzka and Serge Gnabry, as well as Borussia Dortmund's Mats Hummels. Instead, Nagelsmann has opted for young talents like Pavlovic, VfB Stuttgart's Waldemar Anton, Maximilian Mittelstaedt, and Deniz Undav.
Other newcomers in the squad are Maximilian Beier from Hoffenheim and Jan-Niklas Beste from Heidenheim. The team also features the return of veteran midfielder Toni Kroos from Real Madrid and goalkeeper Manuel Neuer, who is back after recovering from a long injury layoff.
Nagelsmann, who took over as coach in September, is under pressure to deliver results with Euro 2024 approaching. Following recent losses, he emphasized the need for change and a fresh approach in the team selection.
Germany will face France on March 23 before hosting Netherlands three days later in their final matches before Euro 2024. Their campaign in the tournament begins on June 14 against Scotland, with Hungary and Switzerland as their other group stage opponents.
