Germany World Cup Qualifying Hopes Hit by Kimmich Injury

Germany World Cup qualifying ambitions have suffered a blow as captain Joshua Kimmich has been ruled out of the pivotal clash against Luxembourg after picking up an ankle injury during training. The influential Bayern Munich midfielder, a cornerstone for Julian Nagelsmann’s side, now faces a race to be fit for the following match against Slovakia.

Kimmich’s Absence Disrupts Germany’s World Cup Qualifying Plans

Kimmich’s injury, confirmed as a capsular issue in his right ankle by the German Football Association (DFB), has forced him out of Friday’s match. Although he will travel with the squad, his presence will be limited to the sidelines. Kimmich’s leadership and versatility—having featured both in central midfield and at right-back—leave a significant gap for Germany at a crucial stage in their World Cup qualifying journey.

The DFB stated that Kimmich’s injury “requires short-term rest,” with his involvement in Monday’s crucial encounter against Slovakia still uncertain. The 30-year-old expressed his determination to return swiftly, sharing a photo of his recovery process on Instagram and writing, “Unfortunately, this is my workplace for now. I’m giving it my all to be back on the pitch on Monday.”

Ridle Baku Set for Rare Start in Germany World Cup Qualifying Campaign

With Kimmich sidelined, Ridle Baku of RB Leipzig is poised to take on the right-back role. Baku, who has not started for the national team since November 2021, was recently recalled by Nagelsmann to add depth to the squad. Baku’s return is timely, given Germany’s lack of natural right-back options and the necessity to maintain defensive solidity.

“It’s a great feeling to be back with the German national team,” Baku remarked. “I’m looking forward to contributing, even if I’m not playing every minute.” Alongside David Raum—expected to start on the opposite flank—Germany could feature a full-back duo from Leipzig, adding a local flavor to the lineup.

Defensive Injuries Mount as Schlotterbeck Joins Kimmich on Sidelines

The injury woes do not end with Kimmich. Borussia Dortmund defender Nico Schlotterbeck is also missing the Luxembourg match after suffering a foot wound that required stitches during his club’s match against Hamburg. This further depletes Nagelsmann’s defensive options, which are already stretched thin.

In midfield, Nadiem Amiri has withdrawn from the squad due to adductor problems. Youngster Assan Ouedraogo has been called up as his replacement, while Karim Adeyemi will miss out through suspension, only returning for the Slovakia fixture.

Germany World Cup Qualifying Group Standings and Stakes

Germany currently sit joint-top of Group A with Slovakia, separated only by goal difference. With nine points apiece, both teams are keenly aware that every match carries significant weight in the race for direct qualification to the 2026 World Cup. The upcoming matches against Luxembourg and Slovakia could ultimately decide the group winner, putting even more pressure on Nagelsmann’s depleted squad.

The last meeting between Germany and Luxembourg ended in a dominant 4-0 win for Die Mannschaft, with Kimmich netting twice. His absence will be keenly felt as Germany aim to maintain their momentum after a challenging start to their qualifying campaign. Luxembourg, meanwhile, have struggled, failing to win any of their last four meetings with Germany and conceding 20 goals in the process.

Who Will Lead Germany on the Pitch?

With both vice-captains Antonio Rudiger and Kai Havertz also unavailable, the captain’s armband is expected to pass to Leroy Sane, currently the most experienced international in the squad. Sane’s leadership and attacking flair will be crucial as Germany seek to overcome their injury crisis and secure three vital points.

Nagelsmann Faces Selection Challenges Amid Injuries

Julian Nagelsmann must navigate this international window with a squad tested in terms of depth and flexibility. Defensive rotations and tactical adjustments are inevitable, with fresh faces like Ouedraogo potentially making their mark. The absence of Kimmich and other regulars not only tests the squad’s quality but also its resilience under pressure.

Nagelsmann is expected to rotate his lineup, offering opportunities to players like Baku and Raum, while ensuring the team remains focused on the immediate task. The need for a commanding performance against Luxembourg could see Germany introduce energetic new talent, hoping to compensate for the loss of leadership and experience.

Germany Remain Favorites Despite Setbacks

Despite the disruption, Germany remain favorites to secure direct World Cup qualification, thanks to their depth and history of resilience. The gap in quality between Germany and Luxembourg is considerable, but the real test will come in Monday’s showdown with Slovakia—a match that could ultimately define the group.

For more news and updates on Germany’s World Cup qualifying journey, visit for more news.

Opinion: Germany Must Prove Their Depth in Kimmich’s Absence

Losing Joshua Kimmich for such a pivotal fixture is a significant setback for Germany. However, these moments often reveal a team’s true character. With a host of injuries and suspensions stretching the squad, Nagelsmann’s side must rely on their depth and adaptability to maintain momentum. The upcoming fixtures against Luxembourg and Slovakia present an ideal opportunity for emerging talents to step up and demonstrate that Germany’s ambitions are built on more than just star power. If Germany can secure positive results without their captain, it will be a testament to the squad’s unity and the coach’s tactical acumen.