Germany Names 24-Player Squad for Friendlies Against Australia and Japan

Germany's women's national football team has officially named a 24-player squad as they prepare for two high-profile friendlies against Australia and Japan. Scheduled for October, these matches are set to take place in Karlsruhe on October 9 and in Bremen on October 13. With over 20,000 tickets already sold, the excitement surrounding these fixtures is palpable, highlighting the growing interest in women's football in Germany.

Head coach Christian Wück emphasized the importance of these matches, stating that they are "exactly the kind of games we need to keep developing as a team and take the next steps forward." This sentiment reflects the team's commitment to building momentum ahead of the Women's World Cup, where Germany has already secured their spot by finishing at the top of their qualifying group, ahead of Norway.

Among the notable inclusions in the squad are Arsenal's new signings Selina Cerci and Lisa Baum, with Baum receiving her first call-up after an impressive start in the Women's Super League. Additionally, established players like Giulia Gwinn and Franziska Kett from Bayern Munich, as well as Wolfsburg's Cora Zicai, have returned to the national setup, showcasing a blend of youth and experience.

However, the squad will miss the long-serving goalkeeper Ann-Katrin Berger, who has opted out following discussions with the coaching staff. This opens the door for Bayern's Ena Mahmutovic to likely start in goal, alongside Stina Johannes from Wolfsburg and Laura Dick from Hoffenheim. The absence of key players such as Kathrin Hendrich, Rebecca Knaak, and Nicole Anyomi due to injuries further complicates the team's preparations.

The squad is as follows:

Goalkeepers: Ena Mahmutovic (Bayern), Stina Johannes (Wolfsburg), Laura Dick (Hoffenheim)

Defenders: Camilla Küver, Sophia Kleinherne, Janina Minge (Wolfsburg), Giulia Gwinn, Franziska Kett (Bayern), Carlotta Wamser (Manchester City), Marie Müller (Portland Thorns), Bibiane Schulze Solano (Athletic Club)

Midfielders: Vivien Endemann (Liverpool), Linda Dallmann, Klara Bühl (Bayern), Laura Freigang (Frankfurt), Elisa Senß (Real Madrid), Jule Brand (Lyon), Sjoeke Nüsken (Chelsea), Lisa Baum, Selina Cerci (Arsenal), Cora Zicai (Wolfsburg)

The Final Whistle

Strikers: Larissa Mühlhaus (Frankfurt), Lea Schüller (Manchester United), Melissa Kössler (Denver Summit FC).

As the team gears up for these crucial friendlies, the focus will be on integrating new players and solidifying tactics that will be essential for their performance in the upcoming World Cup. The matches against Australia and Japan will serve as a litmus test for the squad's readiness and cohesion as they aim to make a significant impact on the world stage.