Germany weighs starting Deniz Undav in World Cup match against Ecuador

Former German internationals Per Mertesacker and Christoph Kramer discuss whether the DFB should rotate its squad for the final group stage match of the 2026 World Cup against Ecuador. The debate focuses on striker Deniz Undav, who has impressed with two goals and two assists in the tournament and was praised as a “joker” who can change games. Coach Julian Nagelsmann is considering putting Undav in the starting eleven, weighing the benefit of his current form against the tactical plan of using him off the bench.

Undav’s recent performances, including a four‑goal haul against Finland before the tournament, have reignited calls from teammates such as Kai Havertz to give him an early start, while Nagelsmann cautions that preserving the impact of his “joker” role could be valuable for later knockout rounds.