Germany vs Paraguay: Why Is Jamal Musiala Not Playing FIFA World Cup 2026 Round Of 32 Game?

Germany has left Jamal Musiala out of their starting XI for the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32 match against Paraguay at Boston Stadium, with Julian Nagelsmann opting for greater penalty-box presence in a knockout game that could define their campaign.

Musiala had started all three group-stage matches for Germany, but Nagelsmann has turned to Deniz Undav for the first knockout test. The decision is tactical rather than disciplinary, with Germany seeking a more direct route through Paraguay’s compact defensive shape.

Why Jamal Musiala Is Not Starting Against Paraguay?

Nagelsmann explained that Germany had created enough chances in possession earlier in the tournament, but lacked a stronger presence in advanced areas when opponents sat deep. Musiala scored in Germany’s 7-1 win over Curacao, but had a quieter impact in the following matches against the Ivory Coast and Ecuador.

“We’ve generally created enough scoring chances in possession. Not in the last game, but in the matches before that,” Nagelsmann told Sky Germany while explaining the change before kick-off.

“However, we have lacked a bit of presence up front when the opponent defends compactly. We were often forced to play the ball into areas in front of the opposition midfield, and we lost possession too much there, which quickly took players out of our game.”

Undav’s inclusion gives Germany another striker alongside their attacking line, allowing them to play earlier into central areas and contest second balls. The forward has scored three goals in the tournament and, in Nagelsmann’s words, has “earned it”.

Denis Undav In The Playing XI For Musiala

The move also reflects Germany’s need for efficiency in a knockout setting. Paraguay are expected to defend in numbers and look for transitions, a pattern that often reduces space for players who prefer receiving between the lines. Musiala remains one of Germany’s most gifted dribblers, but this match-up demands a different attacking profile.

Musiala’s recent fitness history may also form part of the wider context. The Bayern Munich attacker sustained a serious ankle injury during the FIFA Club World Cup in July 2025 and spent more than six months out of action. He returned in time to make Germany’s squad and started the group stage, but the tournament rhythm remains demanding.

Germany’s change does not necessarily reduce Musiala’s role in the match. From the bench, he offers Nagelsmann a high-impact option if Paraguay tire or if Germany need more invention in the second half. His ability to carry the ball through pressure could still become important if the game opens up.

For now, Germany have chosen structure and presence over fluidity between the lines. In a knockout match where one mistake can end a World Cup, Nagelsmann’s call shows how sharply Germany are adjusting their attack to the opponent in front of them.