Schweinsteiger Suggests Nübel as Germany's Starting Goalkeeper
Former German midfielder Bastian Schweinsteiger has indicated that Alexander Nübel, the Stuttgart goalkeeper on loan from Bayern Munich, may be the one to replace the injured Marc-André Ter Stegen in the German national team’s goal. Ter Stegen is sidelined for an extended period due to a ruptured patellar tendon in his right knee.
In comments to the German public broadcaster's portal 'Sportschau,' Schweinsteiger praised Nübel’s performance at Stuttgart last season, stating that “if you look to the future, he definitely has the best options” and expressed his “confidence” in Nübel “until Ter Stegen returns.”
When asked about the possibility of a potential return for Manuel Neuer in the squad that coach Julian Nagelsmann will announce this Thursday, Schweinsteiger remarked that as a fan, he “always has a small hope that they call Manu and he says 'yes,' because he just has an aura in goal that influences the opponent.” He added, “He’s an incredibly good goalkeeper and a leader, so having him at the back would be a safe bet. But I don’t think that will happen, and I suppose Nübel will be in goal.”
Discussing the Bundesliga match between his former team Bayern Munich and Bayer Leverkusen, which ended in a 1-1 draw, Schweinsteiger noted that “Bayern is currently in better shape, but Leverkusen did well and got the point they wanted.” The retired midfielder expressed feeling “a bit disappointed” with the “destructive style of play” from Xabi Alonso's team, which he expected more from, although he noted that this was also due to the play of Vincent Kompany’s side.
Schweinsteiger praised the Belgian coach, saying, “It seems he gets along very well with the players, not just the starters but also those sitting on the bench. He has a good charisma; there’s an energy that shines through even when he talks to the media. He seems very approachable. I think players feel comfortable with him.” He emphasized that what Bayern Munich needs this season is to “win a title” after struggling last season.