Thomas Müller discusses Germany's World Cup prospects ahead of opener
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 8, 2026, 10:55 AM
Last updated Jun 8, 2026
Thomas Müller, a 2014 World Cup winner, addressed the media as Germany prepares for its opening match against Curaçao this Sunday in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Müller noted that he does not see the team as title favorites due to ongoing development, reflecting on past performances in 2018 and 2022. He suggested that this squad lacks the maturity of the 2014 team, citing similarities to the 2010 squad instead. Germany also competes against Ivory Coast and Ecuador in Group E, with a new format allowing for additional third-place teams to advance to the knockout stage. Müller has retired from international play but is involved as a television pundit during the tournament.
- •Germany plays Curaçao in their World Cup opener on June 11.
- •Müller describes the current squad as still developing.
- •Germany was eliminated in the group stages in 2018 and 2022.
- •The tournament features an expanded format with 48 teams.
- •Germany also faces Ivory Coast and Ecuador in the group stage.
- 10:55 AMYahoo Sports — Müller: Germany are no favourites but will not flop like 2018, 2022
"Germany's 2014 World Cup winner Thomas Müller does not see his former side as title favourites this time because the squad is still developing. The expanded World Cup in North America kicks off on Thursday, with Germany first in action against Curaçao in Group E on Sunday.
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