Manchester City goalkeeper Stefan Ortega has been called up to Germany’s national squad for the first time, marking a career milestone that reflects his impressive performances at club level.
Stefan Ortega joins the German team under coach Julian Nagelsmann, who announced the 23-man squad on Thursday for their upcoming Nations League matches against Bosnia and Herzegovina and Hungary.
Ortega, now 32, will be one of three goalkeepers representing Germany, alongside Stuttgart’s Alexander Nuebel and Hoffenheim’s Oliver Baumann.
With first-choice goalkeeper Marc-Andre Ter Stegen sidelined by a serious knee injury, Ortega’s inclusion is not only timely but a reflection of his consistency and skill in recent seasons.
For Manchester City fans and German supporters alike, Ortega’s call-up adds depth to Germany’s lineup as they look to advance their Nations League journey.
Ortega’s Road to His First Germany Call-Up
Stefan Ortega’s journey to the national team has been marked by perseverance and resilience. Despite his talents, he had remained largely under the radar until recent years, gaining recognition as a reliable and capable shot-stopper at Manchester City.
Known for his composure under pressure and exceptional reflexes, Ortega has proven himself as a dependable asset, earning Pep Guardiola’s trust to step in during key games and handle high-pressure moments.
Stefan Ortega’s call-up comes as Germany contends with multiple injuries across its squad. In addition to Ter Stegen’s absence, the team is missing several regulars, including Bayern Munich’s Leroy Sane, West Ham’s Niclas Fuellkrug, Stuttgart’s Jamie Leweling, and RB Leipzig’s David Raum.
For Germany, Stefan Ortega’s experience and maturity offer added strength in goal and underscore the depth within the squad despite these injuries.
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Germany’s Nations League Campaign: Quarterfinal Qualification
Germany has already secured a place in the Nations League quarterfinals after a strong start to the competition, collecting three wins and a draw.
With their spot in the knockout rounds already confirmed, coach Julian Nagelsmann is focusing on finishing at the top of their group. “After reaching the quarterfinals early, we want to win our Nations League group—if possible in front of our fans at the home game in Freiburg,” Nagelsmann stated on Thursday.
The German side faces Bosnia and Herzegovina on November 16 in Freiburg before traveling to Budapest to take on Hungary three days later.
While qualification has taken some pressure off the team, Nagelsmann’s intent to finish at the top is clear, and Ortega’s presence will be a key part of maintaining Germany’s defensive strength.
Midfield Boost with Brandt and Nmecha Returns
Nagelsmann’s squad selection includes notable recalls, such as Borussia Dortmund’s Julian Brandt and Felix Nmecha. Brandt, who hasn’t played for Germany since November last year, is returning after a strong run of form in the Bundesliga.
Nmecha, who received his first cap under former coach Hansi Flick in 2023, has also made a comeback, earning his spot with consistent performances at Borussia Dortmund.
“Leroy Sane needs more match practice and rhythm after his break. Felix Nmecha has stabilized at BVB and, like Julian Brandt, is back after recent good performances,” Nagelsmann commented, signaling his commitment to form-based selections.
With these additions, Germany’s midfield gains a mix of creativity, experience, and energy, crucial as they approach the latter stages of the Nations League.
Squad Depth and Tactical Flexibility
Injuries may have reshuffled Nagelsmann’s preferred lineup, but his squad selection shows the wealth of talent Germany can draw upon.
Alongside Stefan Ortega, seasoned players like Joshua Kimmich, Antonio Ruediger, and Serge Gnabry will bring experience and leadership to the field. Meanwhile, younger talents such as Jamal Musiala and Florian Wirtz will infuse the team with creativity and attacking prowess.
Nagelsmann emphasized the strength of the squad despite the missing players. “We have a strong squad, even if we have to restructure in some positions due to injuries,” he noted. The flexibility of players like Kimmich and Gross allows Germany to adjust tactically, maintaining a competitive edge even with key absences.
Paul Wanner’s Decision to Stay with the U-21s
One interesting development around the squad announcement was 18-year-old midfielder Paul Wanner’s decision to decline a senior team call-up.
Currently on loan at Heidenheim from Bayern Munich, Wanner opted to remain with the German U-21s, prioritizing regular playing time and experience over an early leap to the senior squad.
Wanner, who is eligible to play for both Germany and Austria, has yet to declare his senior international allegiance, leaving fans curious about his future in international football.
His choice to continue developing with the U-21s showcases his focus on honing his skills, suggesting he is taking a strategic approach to his career progression.
Germany’s Nations League Squad Breakdown
Here is the full 23-man squad for Germany’s upcoming Nations League matches:
Goalkeepers: Oliver Baumann (Hoffenheim), Alexander Nuebel (Stuttgart), Stefan Ortega (Manchester City)
Defenders: Robin Gosens (Fiorentina), Benjamin Henrichs (RB Leipzig), Joshua Kimmich (Bayern Munich), Robin Koch (Eintracht Frankfurt), Maximilian Mittelstaedt (Stuttgart), Antonio Ruediger (Real Madrid), Nico Schlotterbeck (Borussia Dortmund), Jonathan Tah (Bayer Leverkusen)
Midfielders: Robert Andrich (Bayer Leverkusen), Julian Brandt (Borussia Dortmund), Chris Fuehrich (Stuttgart), Pascal Gross (Borussia Dortmund), Jamal Musiala (Bayern Munich), Felix Nmecha (Borussia Dortmund), Angelo Stiller (Stuttgart), Florian Wirtz (Bayer Leverkusen)
Forwards: Serge Gnabry (Bayern Munich), Kai Havertz (Arsenal), Tim Kleindienst (Borussia Moenchengladbach), Deniz Undav (Stuttgart)
With a mix of seasoned players and emerging talents, Germany’s lineup remains balanced and versatile. Ortega’s addition provides valuable experience in goal, while other recalled players like Brandt and Nmecha bring fresh energy into the squad.
