National coach Hansi Flick is facing yet another squad reshuffle ahead of Germany’s international matches against Peru and Belgium. Southampton star Armel Bella Kotchap has had to withdraw from the team due to a shoulder injury sustained in a league match against Tottenham Hotspur. The German Football Association (DFB) will announce on Sunday evening who will take the player’s place, with the current favourite being AC Milan’s Malick Thiaw.
Despite having played only 11 times for the German U21 team, Thiaw’s performance at AC Milan has been impressive, with 13 appearances and a successful debut in the Champions League round of 16 against Spurs. The 21-year-old former Schalke player was signed by AC Milan for €7m in the summer of 2022.
Thiaw’s inclusion in the squad comes amid other notable absences, including Thomas Müller, Leroy Sané, Niklas Süle, and Antonio Rüdiger. Instead, Flick has called up Josha Vagnoman, Marius Wolf, Felix Nmecha, Kevin Schade, and Mergim Berisha.
As the test phase for the home European Championship 2024 begins, it remains to be seen whether Thiaw will have the opportunity to play for Germany in the coming months. For now, Flick and his team will focus on preparing for the upcoming matches against Peru and Belgium.
