Germany's Deniz Undav: 'Our goal is to be world champions'

Striker Deniz Undav has asserted Germany's ambition to win the 2026 World Cup, even as the team is not widely considered a top favorite. Undav stated that aiming for anything less than a championship would be a mistake, emphasizing that every player has the goal of becoming world champions.

With the tournament opener against Curaçao approaching, Undav described a rising tension and palpable excitement within the squad. He noted the team's intense focus and accelerated pace in training sessions, with everyone operating at 100%. "The tension is rising, and everyone is very excited for the first match. The focus is there; we are all stepping on the accelerator in training. Everyone is at one hundred percent," Undav said.

He stressed the significance of starting the tournament with a victory, believing it sets a positive example for the team and resonates with fans both in Germany and abroad. Undav, who has received praise from figures like Thomas Müller and Jürgen Klopp, is a potential candidate for the attacking midfield role, competing with Jamal Musiala. He remains flexible, stating his primary objective is to score goals regardless of his starting position.

Reflecting on his personal journey, Undav expressed his love for winning and giving his best. He admitted that he could not have imagined being in this position just a few years ago. The forward also discussed the team's practice of set pieces, highlighting the precision of specialists like David Raum and Joshua Kimmich. Remembering Germany's 2014 World Cup victory, Undav, then 17, recalled celebrating with his parents and joining street festivities, expressing hope for a similar experience for the fans this year. He also lauded goalkeeper Manuel Neuer's leadership and experience, noting his calming presence and profound understanding of the game.