Kimmich Plays Down Germany’s Favourites Tag Ahead of 2026 World Cup

The captain prioritizes unity entering a four-match tune-up window.

Overview

Joshua Kimmich said Germany are not among the top favourites for the World Cup, citing recent group-stage exits and calling for full commitment and fitness from every player.
Germany begin a four-game warm-up with Switzerland in Basel, then host Ghana before facing Finland and the United States to refine roles before the roster is finalized.
A Bayern-leaning squad remains a theme after Aleksandar Pavlović withdrew injured, with Kimmich saying shared club habits can speed team understanding on the pitch.
Kimmich backed head coach Julian Nagelsmann’s steady approach, stressing that consistent preparation and clear roles matter more than big names.
Germany will face Curaçao, Côte d’Ivoire and Ecuador in Group E, a draw the new captain approaches with tempered expectations shaped by the failures of 2018 and 2022.