Germany’s head coach Julian Nagelsmann has expressed strong confidence in Newcastle striker Nick Woltemade to lead the national team’s attack during their crucial 2026 World Cup qualifiers. The Germans are set to face Luxembourg on Friday before hosting Slovakia on Monday in a decisive match that will likely determine the Group A winner. Woltemade, 23, has emerged as a key figure for Germany, scoring the winning goal in their 1-0 victory over Northern Ireland in October. Despite having only six caps to his name, his recent form and versatility have made him indispensable for the injury-plagued squad. Nagelsmann praised Woltemade’s pressing, ball retention, and goal-scoring abilities, highlighting his seamless transition to the Premier League with Newcastle, where he scored in four of his first five games. However, Germany’s injury woes continue to mount, with captain Joshua Kimmich ruled out of the Luxembourg match due to an ankle injury. Bayern Munich’s Jonathan Tah will step in as captain in his absence. Other notable absentees include Kai Havertz, Jamal Musiala, and Marc-Andre ter Stegen, among others. Germany, currently level on points with Slovakia but ahead on goal difference, must secure a win on Monday to guarantee direct qualification for the World Cup. Slovakia, who face Northern Ireland on Friday, will also be vying for the top spot in Leipzig. With Luxembourg already out of contention after four consecutive losses, Germany remains focused on maintaining their perfect World Cup qualification record.