Nagelsmann ‘to keep door open’ for ter Stegen at World Cup | OneFootball

Julian Nagelsmann has addressed Germany's goalkeeper picture for this summer's World Cup, keeping open the possibility of Marc-André ter Stegen featuring despite his lay-off. According to Kicker, he said he would not completely close the door and that any decision must make sense for everyone.

Ter Stegen, 33, had been expected to succeed Manuel Neuer as number one after the latter's international retirement, but injuries have disrupted that plan. After joining Girona on loan from Barcelona to secure minutes, he sustained a muscle problem that could rule him out for months.

Nagelsmann accepted the outlook is far from rosy, calling it a serious injury that needs time to heal and noting the overall timeframe is tight. He pointed out the keeper had already spent a year out and that predicting his World Cup availability is very difficult.

He added that ter Stegen should recover first, then the situation will be assessed.

In ter Stegen's absence, Oliver Baumann of Hoffenheim has impressed for club and country and currently appears well positioned to continue as Germany's starter. With Neuer confirming no plans to return to international duty, Nagelsmann said the combination of ter Stegen's setback, Neuer's retirement and Baumann's outstanding form says a lot.

Source: BuLi News