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Julian Nagelsmann has reaffirmed his support for Jamal Musiala and Florian Wirtz despite their underwhelming performance in Germany’s loss to Ecuador. The national team head coach remains confident in the talented pair and insists he will continue to rely on them ahead of Monday’s Round of 32 fixture, convinced they are close to returning to their best.

Nagelsmann stands firm with Germany’s creative duo

High expectations surrounded Musiala and Wirtz as Germany entered the 2026 World Cup, yet neither player has managed to make a decisive mark so far. Both struggled during the defeat to Ecuador, as their trademark dribbling threat was consistently blunted by the opposition’s physical defending. Despite the setback, Nagelsmann has no intention of breaking up the partnership. The Germany coach confirmed that both midfielders will start again on Monday, emphasising his belief that their individual brilliance will soon turn the tide.

Nagelsmann confident a breakthrough is imminent

The coach commended Wirtz’s work ethic, even though the Bayer Leverkusen playmaker could not find the net. He also urged patience with Musiala, noting that the Bayern Munich attacker is still regaining rhythm after a lengthy injury layoff.

“Flo was very committed and gave everything he had,” Nagelsmann told reporters. “He’s just short on luck right now. He had two or three excellent dribbles in the box. He’s only missing the goal.”

On Musiala, Nagelsmann added: “He’s been out for a year. We all know what he can do. We just need to bring that out of him. The breakthrough for both (Musiala and Wirtz) will definitely come on Monday!”

Germany seeking confidence before the knockout rounds

There were at least some positives in the Ecuador game, as Leroy Sane ended his goal drought. Nagelsmann praised the winger’s effort, believing his return to form could help relieve pressure on Germany’s younger attackers.

“I was happy for him,” said Nagelsmann. “He’s performing well and was close to scoring a second goal.”

Despite the defeat, the coach does not plan wholesale changes. Instead, he wants his team to take lessons from their loss while staying confident in their attacking approach.

“It’s important we learn from our experiences,” Nagelsmann commented. “I would have made different substitutions if we needed a win. On Monday, it’s about giving everything and advancing to the next round. We must move forward with confidence.”

Germany ready for knockout challenge

Germany will depart their Winston-Salem training base ahead of their Round of 32 clash against Paraguay in Boston on Monday. Nagelsmann has made it clear he will avoid major tactical changes, choosing instead to trust Musiala, Wirtz, and the rest of his attacking lineup to deliver when it matters most in the knockout stage.