Overview
- The German team arrived at its Winston‑Salem base and held a public training at Wake Forest that drew about 3,000 fans, with the squad settled after a late call‑up for Assan Ouédraogo to replace the injured Lennart Karl.
- Rudi Völler and coaching staff report Manuel Neuer has returned to full training and is expected to start in goal for Germany’s opener against Curaçao on June 14.
- Julian Nagelsmann took a 26‑player roster to the U.S. that includes three goalkeepers and competition for defensive places, notably between David Raum and Nathaniel Brown.
- Tournament‑wide changes from FIFA introduce new match procedures such as a one‑minute leave‑of‑absence for treated outfield players, stricter substitution timing, a five‑second throw‑in countdown, and broader VAR reviews that could alter match management and tactics.
- Operational strains shadow the start of the World Cup as U.S. entry and visa problems for officials and journalists have drawn criticism and Germany’s public‑viewing plans remain dependent on local approvals despite a federal draft permitting late‑night screenings.