Giulia Gwinn and Laura Freigang start, Ann‑Katrin Berger sits out

The German women's national team begins the World Cup season with captain Giulia Gwinn and striker Laura Freigang in the squad, while goalkeeper Ann‑Katrin Berger takes a break. Gwinn is back on board after overcoming a shoulder injury, and Freigang returns for the hardening tests against Australia and Japan, although the DFB is investigating a possible doping offence.

Gwinn back after shoulder injury

After a long recovery period, the 24‑year‑old Giulia Gwinn has fully overcome her shoulder injury. National team coach Christian Wück immediately placed her back into the 24‑person squad. With her return, the German team strengthens the defence, where she has previously been an important link.

Freigang's return for hardening tests

Laura Freigang, who was most recently only nominated on call, will be taken back into the squad for the test matches against Australia and Japan in Karlsruhe and Bremen on October 9 and 13. The DFB has been examining possible violations by the attacking player of anti‑doping regulations since early June, because she is alleged to have failed to correctly state her whereabouts three times – a case that could result in a suspension. Despite this uncertainty, Christian Wück emphasizes that the two opponents are of very high quality.

Senior goalkeeper Ann‑Katrin Berger (35, Gotham FC) is taking a break from the upcoming international matches in agreement with the DFB. She will therefore be unavailable for the two test matches, but plans to return to the German team later.

Offensive youngster Lisa Baum (19) from Arsenal FC gets her first chance in the selection for the 2027 World Cup in Brazil (June 24 to July 25). Also returning to the squad are Bibiane Schulze Solano, Franziska Kett, Cora Zicai and Laura Dick as a backup goalkeeper. In midfield and attack, further international players such as Jule Brand (Olympique Lyon) and Klara Bühl (Bayern München) are ready.

In defence, the experienced duo Kathrin Hendrich and Rebecca Knaak are missing due to injuries, while striker Nicole Anyomi is still in rehab training. Eleven players from the 24‑person squad are already active at foreign clubs, including Marie Müller (Portland Thorns FC) and Vivien Endemann (FC Liverpool).

“Against Australia and Japan we face two very high‑quality opponents,” emphasized Christian Wück. “Exactly such games are what we need to further develop the team and to set the next steps in motion.” With this, he underlines the importance of the upcoming tests for further preparation.