Just when it seemed Germany's goalkeeper situation was settled, a familiar name is pushing for a dramatic late comeback. Marc-André ter Stegen, the Barcelona stalwart, has not closed the door on a return to the national team ahead of this summer's FIFA World Cup.

Speaking about his chances, ter Stegen offered a realistic yet hopeful perspective. "At the moment I’m far from that," he stated, referencing his recovery. "I feel quite good and we have to do everything we can to keep me healthy. At the end of the season we’ll see if I can make it... I won’t force anything, because health is the most important thing. But of course the desire to be at a World Cup and have that experience is unique."

This throws an intriguing curveball into coach Julian Nagelsmann's plans. It was widely believed that Hoffenheim's Oliver Baumann had been confirmed as Germany's number one for the 2026 tournament, despite recent competition. Nagelsmann has consistently backed Baumann, even after a shaky performance against Switzerland, while veterans like Manuel Neuer continue to show their class at the club level.

While it's a luxury for any coach to have multiple top-tier goalkeepers vying for a spot, ter Stegen's path to the starting role seems steep. His experience and leadership, however, could prove invaluable even in a supporting role, whether behind Baumann or another contender. This late-season push adds another layer of suspense to Germany's World Cup preparations.

With the tournament fast approaching, the battle for the gloves is heating up. Who do you think should—and will—start in goal for Germany this summer?