Despite a strong scoring record with VfB Stuttgart, Deniz Undav has predominantly remained a substitute for the German national team (DFB). Head coach Julian Nagelsmann has robustly defended his decisions regarding Undav’s role, leading to a crucial response from the player himself.
Nagelsmann explained his reasoning, stating, «Deniz performs exceptionally well, especially when opponents are already fatigued. His qualities tend to diminish when he has to engage in extensive defensive work throughout the game. Considering the effort we put in during the first 60 to 70 minutes against Switzerland to secure a win, the World Cup will demand a similar intensity. That’s one reason.»
He cited a second key factor: «We have defined specific roles for players. I must adhere to these definitions in the upcoming matches; otherwise, I risk losing all my credibility. If I were to change everything, there would be no point in having those role discussions in the first place.» Nagelsmann has previously justified selection decisions, such as the initial exclusion of Leon Goretzka or the hesitation with Angelo Stiller, based on these defined roles.
Statistical data supports Nagelsmann’s assessment of Undav’s late-game effectiveness: 16 of his 23 seasonal goals for VfB Stuttgart were scored in the second half, although he primarily started those club matches.
Undav: «Goals Might Change My Role»
In a previous match, Nagelsmann controversially started Nick Woltemade, who has been struggling at club level with Newcastle United, over Undav. The coach clarified his decision, explaining he aimed to boost Woltemade’s confidence amidst his difficult club situation. «I tried to reassure him. It has nothing to do with him personally; it’s a trend affecting many players at Newcastle. Even their top scorer, Gordon, was benched in crucial Champions League games. I believe it’s Eddie Howe’s philosophy to rotate heavily,» Nagelsmann remarked.
He suggested Woltemade could serve as a backup for Kai Havertz at the World Cup, as he represents a similar player type. Undav, conversely, is «more of a finisher,» a quality he spectacularly demonstrated against Ghana. After coming on as a substitute, Undav scored the decisive goal, securing a 2-1 victory for Germany.
Following the match, Undav addressed his substitute role in an interview: «I’ve had a conversation with the national coach; I understand my role. But perhaps, through scoring goals, my role might still evolve.» He added, «I simply try to accept my role, keep working hard, give my all, and score goals for the team. That’s the most important thing.»
Even before his impactful goal, Undav indirectly made a case for a starting spot, analyzing, «We had control in the first half and should have converted our chances and half-chances into goals, or at least created more danger.»
Stuttgart Fans Celebrate Undav, Who Then Delivers
Prior to the Ghana match, Nagelsmann had already staunchly defended his choice to bring on Woltemade instead of Undav in a 4-3 victory against Switzerland. He argued that in such an «extremely intense game,» Undav’s «many excellent qualities, especially when he has a lot of possession,» might not have fully come to fruition. He also emphasized the importance of instilling confidence in Woltemade, given his club difficulties, while the in-form Undav did not require such a boost.
The VfB Stuttgart striker had also caused a stir earlier by revealing he hadn’t been in contact with Nagelsmann since the winter break, a point the coach had publicly addressed and justified.
During the international match in Stuttgart, despite starting on the bench, Undav was a focal point. Fans cheered his name with chants three times in the first half, to which he responded with a smile and a visible wave of appreciation. TV pundit Bastian Schweinsteiger jokingly commented, «I was a little disappointed he didn’t substitute himself in.»
Undav eventually entered the game in the second half, replacing Serge Gnabry, once again accompanied by enthusiastic chants. In the 88th minute, Undav scored the winning goal for the DFB team, assisted by Leroy Sane, making the score 2-1.
Deniz Undav vs. Nick Woltemade: Season 2025/26 Statistics
| Deniz Undav | Nick Woltemade | |
|---|---|---|
| Matches | 38 | 48 |
| Goals | 23 | 11 |
| Assists | 13 | 5 |