Germany have been one of the strongest national teams over the last decade, but they have failed to compete with the best during their transition phase.

On paper, they still have one of the best midfields in the tournament, but their defence and attack aren’t up to the mark. As they are placed in the group of death, Germany will have to be at the top of their game.

Probable Lineup: Manuel Neuer; Lukas Klostermann, Mats Hummels, Antonio Rudiger, Matthias Ginter; Joshua Kimmich, Leon Goretzka, Toni Kroos; Serge Gnabry, Thomas Muller, Leroy Sane.

Defence: This is the most unsettled segment of the lineup. Mats Hummels surprise inclusion due to his fine performances for Borussia Dortmund should mean that he features in the backline, giving it a much-needed leader.

Antonio Rudiger should pip Emre Can to the second centre back spot, while traditional centre backs Lukas Klostermann and Matthias Ginter are expected to fill up the full back roles if the recent international break is anything to go by. Ter Stegen’s omission means that Manuel Neuer is the undoubted man in between the sticks.

Midfield: Germany’s biggest strength has always been their midfield. With Joshua Kimmich and Toni Kroos, they have two of the best central midfielders in the world. Joachim Loew will have a selection headache while choosing between Leon Goretzka and Ilkay Gundogan. The duo could feature together as well, in which case Kimmich will have to make do with the right back role. This sounds great in theory, but it’s always better to utilise the best players in their preferred positions.

Attack: Germany have a nice set of wingers, but they lack a clinical striker. Just like Hummels, Thomas Muller’s selection in the team indicates that he might be the one to play the false 9 role with Serge Gnabry and Leroy Sane on either wing. Muller will have to be at his lethal best to make sure there are enough number of goals for the team. They also have the likes of Kai Havertz and Timo Werner as worthy options on the bench.