Robert Andrich Eyes Germany World Cup Return

Robert Andrich’s World Cup Ambitions: Can He Rejoin Germany’s Squad?

Robert Andrich’s World Cup Hopes Remain Alive

Robert Andrich, Germany international and Bayer Leverkusen captain, is not giving up on his World Cup dream. After being left out of recent Germany squads under coach Julian Nagelsmann, Andrich has openly expressed his desire to represent his country on football’s biggest stage this summer. Speaking to Sky after Leverkusen’s DFB-Pokal semi-final defeat to Bayern Munich, the midfielder declared, “I haven’t booked a holiday yet. I want to be there and I believe I have something to offer the team.”

From Key Player to Fringe Figure: The Changing Role of Robert Andrich

Andrich was a regular starter for Germany during last year’s home European Championship, especially after benefiting from Nagelsmann’s arrival as national team manager. At club level, his development accelerated under Xabi Alonso, with Andrich forming a formidable midfield partnership for Leverkusen. This partnership mirrored the role Nagelsmann envisioned for him alongside Toni Kroos and Ilkay Gündogan during the Euros.

However, his fortunes have changed. While Andrich played consistently for Germany from November 2023 to late 2024, he has seen his international minutes diminish since the Nations League quarter-final against Italy. In recent months, Andrich has spent most matches on the bench and was absent from Germany’s November 2025 and March 2026 training camps, making a late call-up seem unlikely.

Competition for Places in Nagelsmann’s Germany Squad

One reason for Andrich’s current exclusion is the fierce competition for defensive and midfield spots in the national team. At Bayer Leverkusen, the 29-year-old now operates mainly as a centre-back under Kasper Hjulmand, while the national team boasts established options such as Jonathan Tah, Nico Schlotterbeck, Antonio Rüdiger, and Waldemar Anton. In midfield, Aleksandar Pavlovic, Leon Goretzka, Pascal Groß, and the currently injured Felix Nmecha are all ahead in the pecking order. Should Nmecha miss out, players like Angelo Stiller or Anton Stach could get the nod before Andrich.

Andrich’s Impact at Club Level

Despite national team setbacks, Andrich has been instrumental for Bayer Leverkusen. He scored the decisive goal in the Champions League last 16 against Arsenal and netted a long-range winner against Borussia Dortmund on Matchday 29. The midfielder’s leadership and ability to deliver in crucial moments underscore his value at the club level.

The Human Element: Why Andrich Matters in Germany’s World Cup Squad

There’s more to Andrich’s potential inclusion than just on-field contributions. As reported by Bild, Nagelsmann values players who can lift team spirit, even from the bench. “With the national team it’s different: at the World Cup we’ll be sharing the same environment for eight or nine weeks, so personal compatibility is essential,” Nagelsmann explained to MagentaTV. The ability to support teammates and maintain a positive atmosphere is a key factor in final squad selection—a role Andrich is known to excel in.

Could Andrich’s Attitude Earn Him a Late Call-Up?

A conversation with Nagelsmann earlier in the year gave Andrich hope. “My chance is still there,” he noted. “It’s all about playing time and performance. I can’t fault myself in that regard. I’m on the pitch in every game.” His reliability and team-first mentality make him a strong contender for a late squad inclusion, especially if injuries or tactical needs arise.

Final Thoughts: Should Robert Andrich Make Germany’s World Cup Squad?

In my view, Robert Andrich’s blend of experience, versatility, and character could be exactly what Germany needs, especially in a high-pressure World Cup environment. While his chances appear slim given the current squad depth, the value of a team player who can adapt and boost morale cannot be underestimated. For supporters seeking updates on this story and all things football, visit for more news.