Germany head coach Jürgen Klopp has expressed concerns over the fitness of two key players, Jamal Musiala and Kai Havertz, ahead of their upcoming match against Greece. Both players suffered muscular problems during Germany's 1-1 draw against the Netherlands in the UEFA Nations League. According to a release on the Germany Football Federation (DFB) website, the duo underwent MRI scans on Monday to assess the extent of their injuries.
Klopp has indicated that the injuries may not be serious, but it is uncertain whether Musiala and Havertz will be available for the Greece encounter on Sunday. "It's a muscular issue for both of them. They've both had MRIs. I hope it's nothing too serious and the lads will be fit to play again fairly soon. They probably won't be available for Sunday's match," Klopp said. The injuries could force Klopp to reconsider his attacking options, with Jonathan Burkardt and Nick Woltemade emerging as potential replacements.
Musiala and Havertz were part of Germany's starting lineup in their 1-1 draw against the Netherlands, which marked Klopp's first game as head coach of the national team. The match was played in Amsterdam, and Klopp acknowledged that his side still has room for improvement. "We'll wait and see. But it's clear we need to rethink things – we can, and should be, considering our options," Klopp stated.
According to reports, Arsenal forward Kai Havertz is expected to return to his club for treatment, with his injury believed to be a suspected muscle strain. Havertz had to be substituted in the first half of Thursday's match due to a challenge from Quinten Timber. This injury represents the latest in a series of setbacks for Havertz, who was limited to only seven Premier League starts last season due to knee and muscle issues.
Havertz has been a key player for Arsenal this season, starting six of their eight games in all competitions and scoring three goals. However, his injury record has been a concern, with him missing the final three months of the 2024/25 season due to a hamstring tear. Klopp will be hoping that Havertz's injury is not serious and that he can return to action soon.
The absence of Musiala and Havertz could be a significant blow to Germany's chances against Greece. Klopp will need to assess his options and make necessary adjustments to his lineup. The Germany head coach has expressed optimism that the injuries are not serious and that both players will be fit to play again soon.
Germany's match against Greece is scheduled for Sunday, and Klopp will be hoping to have his key players available for selection. The team's performance in the UEFA Nations League has been inconsistent, and a win against Greece would be crucial in boosting their chances of advancing in the competition.
Key points
- Germany head coach Jürgen Klopp says Jamal Musiala and Kai Havertz are doubtful for Sunday’s match against Greece due to muscular problems.
- Musiala and Havertz suffered injuries during Germany's 1-1 draw against the Netherlands in the UEFA Nations League.
- The absence of Musiala and Havertz could be a significant blow to Germany's chances against Greece.
