The battle for Germany's 2026 World Cup squad is heating up, and a legend has fired the first major salvo, casting serious doubt on Leroy Sané's inclusion. Pierre Littbarski, the 1990 World Champion, believes the time is right for fresh faces to invigorate the national team.
Key Talking Points:
- Pierre Littbarski challenges Leroy Sané's current form, stating it's not up to international standards.
- The German icon suggests younger talents like Lennart Karl (Bayern Munich) and Said El Mala (Cologne) deserve a look.
- National coach Julian Nagelsmann offers a staunch defense of Sané, highlighting his unique profile and impact.
- Sané's performance at Galatasaray is rated as "decent" but not "outstanding."
The Sané Conundrum: A German Icon Calls for Change
Former German international Pierre Littbarski has made his stance unequivocally clear regarding Leroy Sané's potential involvement in the 2026 World Cup squad. The 65-year-old World Champion suggests Sané simply isn't performing at the elite level required for international duty. This bold declaration ignites a significant debate over squad selection.
Instead of relying on established names, Littbarski advocates for a youth movement. He specifically name-checks promising talents like Lennart Karl from Bayern Munich and Said El Mala of Cologne. While acknowledging they might not start, he sees them as impactful substitutes for the final 20 minutes, bringing fresh energy and a hunger to succeed.
Sané's Turkish Chapter: Performance Under Scrutiny
Leroy Sané's move to Galatasaray Istanbul last summer on a free transfer from FC Bayern Munich raised some eyebrows. While his season in Turkey hasn't been a disaster, it hasn't been a spectacular showcase either. With six goals and eight assists across 34 competitive matches, his contributions are solid, but critics argue they lack the decisive spark expected from a player of his calibre.
This
