Following a triumphant World Cup opener, national team coach Julian Nagelsmann appears to be crafting a tactical surprise. According to Bild, Leroy Sané could be deployed in a completely new role against Ivory Coast.
During the program ‘Reif ist Live,’ it was stated: «Our reporters have revealed that a variation was practiced in the DFB’s secret training, which Julian Nagelsmann is reportedly seriously considering.» The focus of these strategic deliberations is none other than Sané, who is already under particular scrutiny after an unfortunate performance in the first group match against Curaçao.
The specific plan involves the nominal right-winger dropping deep defensively. When the opponent has possession, Sané would cover the right defensive flank, effectively extending the existing back four into a back five.
This tactical adjustment would trigger a chain reaction within the system: Jamal Musiala would shift from the center to the right, forming a four-man midfield alongside Florian Wirtz, Aleksandar Pavlovic, and Felix Nmecha. Kai Havertz would remain as the sole striker positioned ahead of this midfield line.
Germany Reportedly Respects Diomande’s Threat
Instead of the established 4-2-3-1 formation, the national team would operate in a 5-4-1 defensive shape. This is a clear indication that Nagelsmann is approaching the opponent with significant respect.
Ivory Coast boasts lightning-fast wingers, most notably the 19-year-old Yan Diomande of RB Leipzig, who could cause considerable problems for Germany’s defensive transitions. The respect for this counter-attacking threat seemingly forces the national coach to reconsider his approach towards a more controlled defense.
Expert and former commentator Marcel Reif, meanwhile, views the potential tactical experiment with a healthy dose of skepticism. During his program, the 76-year-old stated that the initial formation of the game is not that important anyway. He also added that he «doesn’t know if Sané is really a defender.»
Reif: «I Believe This is a Test Match for Sané»
At the same time, Reif acknowledges the necessity of reacting to the opponent’s strengths. Regarding the idea of a back five, he explained: «It’s clear that the positions must be fluid and Sané will have to work more defensively against Ivory Coast. I think he will start. Based on the names, I believe it will be the same lineup as against Curaçao. I think that makes sense.»
For Sané himself, much more is at stake on Saturday evening than just adapting to a new tactical role. In the goal-fest against Curaçao, the 30-year-old was clearly overshadowed by his attacking colleagues. Despite excellent goal-scoring opportunities, he failed to score himself, which led to considerable criticism afterward.
Reif therefore sees the attacker at a crossroads in the tournament. «I believe this is a test match for Sané. If things don’t go really well there, then Nagelsmann will run out of arguments, and then one has to consider Leweling or Undav, or do other things,» he said.