Moukoko parlayed Bundesliga form into place in Germany squad

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The foundation for Germany's World Cup squad has been built by the domestic league, and it will be interesting to see how the season ends.

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It had been known for a while that Thursday would be the decision day for Die Nationalmannschaft manager Hansi Flick, but there were always going to be some touching stories for other people.

In attack, Germany have been searching for a top-echelon solution for several years, and Flick has decided to pick two in-form players at opposite ends of the age spectrum.

Niclas Fullkrug has a knack in front of goal at 29 years old. He has 10 goals for Werder Bremen this season, but five of them came in the final five minutes of matches, while three were of the aerial variety. Even though he has no international experience, Fullkrug is a seasoned pro, a line leader, and the type of player Germany will need at the World Cup.

Yousso Moukoko wasn't sure if he'd make the squad at the start of the season, but he's been in great form and has a chance to win a place in the team. His brace in the 2-0 win over VfL Bochum last week boosted his cause and there have been other big Bundesliga moments, such as the late winner in the Revierderby and the crucial goal.

In the past few days, injuries to Lukas Nmecha helped solidify the judgement in their favor.

You would have to be a philistine to ignore the fact that Mario Gotze was the man who scored the goal that won the World Cup for Germany. Gotze hasn't played for Germany in five years due to health problems.

His confidence was lifted by a spell in the Netherlands with PSV, but it was the move to Eintracht Frankfurt that really made him feel better. Gotze was signed to help break down deep-sitting, defensive-minded opponents, as well as his ability to play numerous games in quick succession, as well as his great personality.

If Marco Reus had been able to win his race against time, he would have been included in the squad. Reus has missed major tournaments in four of the last five years, making him theluckiest high-profile German player.

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The explanation of the situation was given by Flick. After missing most of the year with a tornACL, the talent is only just back in training, and it will benefit him more to stay with the club. It would have been foolish to rush him back as it would have been a mistake.

There is disagreement over the opinion of Hummels. The 33 year old failed to make the cut for the team. He said the coaching staff believes in having an eye on the future. Germany will be expected to be one of the candidates to win Euro 2024. Younger players could benefit from tournament experience.

In his words, Antonio Rudiger is the defensive chief and Germany have a player with pace and tenacity. Hummels' tendency to criticize his teammates on the back of poor performances had nothing to do with it. Hummels has lost pace and was set to be the fifth-choice central defender, and to have such a senior figure with such a lowly status makes little sense.

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