Klopp surprises with Gnabry nomination, Undav and Sane left out
When Jürgen Klopp announced his first squad for the German national team last week, he surprised with the nomination of Serge Gnabry, who had only one appearance for FC Bayern this season. The decision left both Deniz Undav and Leroy Sane stunned, while the team in Munich heads towards the upcoming international friendly period.
Gnabry despite Minimal Playing Time
Serge Gnabry has only logged 13 minutes for FC Bayern this season, after suffering a serious adductor injury in mid‑April. His comeback came only the day after the squad announcement, when he featured for 13 minutes in the 7‑0 win over Union Berlin. Despite this limited playing time, Jürgen Klopp called him up to the DFB team, where he is one of only four players allowed to accompany the entire international friendly period. The 31‑year‑old attacking player now faces intense competition in Munich, where older players such as Joshua Kimmich (31) and Marc‑Andre ter Stegen (34) are also fighting for places.
Undav and Sane stay out
Deniz Undav is missing because, according to Klopp, he has “not yet really found his footing in the season.” Despite Achilles tendon problems, Undav played six matches and recorded four assists. Leroy Sane, who featured in every competitive match for Galatasaray this season, has meanwhile “not yet really found his footing,” Klopp said. Both players have not been convincing lately and were therefore excluded from the selection.
Klopp emphasizes that with the nomination of Gnabry and the new faces he wants to test the possibility of bringing fresh impetus into the team. He deliberately selects unused newcomers to complement the established World Cup starting eleven, and explains that the decision is understandable because the two mentioned players have not yet found the desired form.
In Munich, a thrilling competition awaits after the announcement, where not only Gnabry but also other young attacking players will fight for playing time. The squad comprises 44 players, including captain Joshua Kimmich and goalkeeper Marc‑Andre ter Stegen, who are older than Gnabry. This blend of experience and youth is intended to strengthen the team for the upcoming international friendly period.
Gnabry signed a new contract with FC Bayern in February lasting until 2028, after previously being considered a transfer candidate. Before his injury he was being touted as a potential regular in the number‑10 role, and his strong performances in the Champions League, especially against Paris Saint‑Germain, were praised by experts. The current situation shows that despite lacking match practice and physical limitations, he remains in Klopp’s confidence.
The nomination of Gnabry, who missed the World Cup, could give him an untroubled start in the national team. While Undav and Sane remain on the sidelines, Klopp’s decision offers a clue as to how he intends to balance experience and fresh talent for the upcoming matches.