Germany’s 1-1 draw against Spain was a bad sign in more ways than one for Chelsea’s Kai Havertz.
After starting in the shock 2-1 defeat to Japan last week, he was dropped to the bench for the key match yesterday.
Then, as the substitutes were made, he didn’t emerge despite Germany needing a goal late on to keep their qualification hopes alive.
Instead, Hansi Flick looked to Niclas Fullkrug for just his third cap for national team.
Having spent the majority of his career in the second division of German football, his inclusion came as a surprise to many following Timo Werner missing the tournament through injury.
It was a stroke of genius from the manager however, as a classic striker’s finish from Fullkrug dragged his country back into the game, and back into the tournament full stop.
Havertz could not start again
Having a natural number nine on the pitch seemed to be what Germany were lacking in yesterday’s game, with plenty of talent on display until the final action before he came on.
Junior Musiala looked a real talent going forwards, however even he seemed to lack the finishing required as he missed a big chance late on.
With Germany surely looking to stick with Fullkrug, it is looking very ominous for Havertz’s tournament hopes.
It has been well documented that he plays his best football for Germany behind the striker, in a classic number 10 role which is rarely available at Stamford Bridge.
However, Musiala’s talents make things very difficult for him to be displaced from that role, leaving Havertz seemingly without a place in the team going forwards.
The fact the 23-year-old was an unused substitute with the country’s hopes of staying in the tournament on the line shows he really didn’t impress in his opening game, and he may struggle to earn his way back into the team.
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