Germany's dramatic comeback victory over Ivory Coast at the 2026 FIFA World Cup has reignited one of the biggest debates surrounding Julian Nagelsmann's side, should Deniz Undav replace Jamal Musiala in the starting lineup?
Undav once again proved his importance to the national team by delivering a superb impact performance off the bench. With Germany struggling to break down an energetic Ivory Coast side, the Stuttgart forward changed the complexion of the match with his intelligent movement, relentless pressing and decisive contributions in attack. His cameo helped Germany overturn the deficit and secure another memorable World Cup victory, maintaining their perfect start to the tournament.
The 30-year-old has been one of Germany's standout performers in the competition so far. Despite not being a guaranteed starter, Undav has consistently produced when called upon, contributing goals, assists and creating chances with remarkable efficiency. His ability to link play, occupy defenders and bring teammates into dangerous positions has added a different dimension to Germany's attack.
With Germany already through to the knockout rounds, calls for Undav to be handed a starting role have only grown louder.
Muller and Klopp's Earlier Remarks Look Vindicated
Interestingly, the current discussion surrounding Undav is not entirely new.
During a World Cup broadcast on MagentaTV, Jürgen Klopp and Thomas Müller picked their preferred Germany lineup for their match and surprisingly opted for Deniz Undav in the No. 10 role ahead of Jamal Musiala. Their reasoning was that Musiala's dribbling and creativity could be even more effective later in the game, when opponents are tiring and more spaces begin to open up.
Those comments generated considerable controversy at the time.
Musiala remains one of the most gifted young players in world football, and many supporters viewed comparisons with Undav as unfair. The Bayern Munich star has been Germany's creative heartbeat for years and possesses the ability to change games with a single dribble or moment of brilliance.
However, Undav's outstanding performances at the World Cup mean Muller and Klopp's assessments now appear far less controversial. While Musiala has struggled to rediscover his sharpness, Undav has taken every opportunity presented to him.
Will Nagelsmann Make the Change Against Ecuador?
Germany's final group-stage encounter against Ecuador could provide Nagelsmann with the ideal opportunity to reward Undav's form.
With qualification already secured, rotation seems highly likely, and Undav appears to be among the leading candidates to earn a place in the starting eleven.
That said, leaving Musiala out is not a straightforward decision.
Nagelsmann has long been an admirer of the Bayern star and has repeatedly shown immense faith in him. The German coach has continued to start Musiala despite the midfielder only recently returning from a lengthy injury layoff and clearly not operating at his usual level.
Nagelsmann's loyalty to Musiala is well documented, and he may still believe that giving the 23-year-old more minutes is the best way to help him regain rhythm ahead of the knockout stages.
Ultimately, it remains to be seen whether the Germany boss is willing to remove Musiala from the lineup altogether. Another possibility is accommodating both players in the same side, potentially pushing someone like Leroy Sane to the bench.
Whatever Nagelsmann decides, Undav has undoubtedly given his manager a welcome selection headache. After another influential World Cup display, the striker has done everything possible to stake his claim for a starting berth against Ecuador.
