Christian Streich, the legendary former manager of SC Freiburg, is swapping the touchline for the TV studio. The long-serving coach, who spent 14 years at the helm of the Bundesliga club before stepping down in 2024, has signed on as a pundit for German broadcaster ZDF during the upcoming World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico this June and July.

Fans won't have to wait long to hear his insights. Streich will make his broadcasting debut during the tournament's opening match between Mexico and South Africa on June 11, ZDF announced on Tuesday. It's a fitting start for a coach known for his no-nonsense analysis and deep tactical understanding of the game.

"I'm looking forward to this entirely new role and to preparing thoroughly for the task," Streich said in a statement. "My goal is to explain the individual teams' game strategies in a way that is clear and easy for viewers to understand."

ZDF's sporting director couldn't hide their excitement about the hire, noting, "With Christian Streich, our World Cup team is gaining a unique coach who is known for speaking his mind." That direct, unfiltered style made Streich a beloved figure in German football, and it promises to bring a fresh, authentic perspective to the broadcast booth.

After more than two decades at Freiburg—first as a youth coach and then as the first-team manager—Streich is stepping into a role that will keep him close to the action. For viewers, his debut is a chance to see one of the game's sharpest minds break down the world's biggest tournament, one play at a time.