Since Neuer's retirement from the national team, Germany's goalkeeper position has become a major point of interest. On September 17 (CEST), Germany coach Klopp will announce his first squad since taking over and prepare for UEFA Nations League matches against the Netherlands (September 24), Greece (September 27 and October 4), and Serbia (October 1). The most pressing question is: who will earn the nod in goal?

Baumann, Nübel, and Ulreich (third-choice keeper) were all included in Germany's World Cup squad. Baumann was once elevated to first-choice keeper under Julian Nagelsmann but was dropped back to second choice before the World Cup. The Hoffenheim goalkeeper's strength lies in his extensive experience.

Marc-André ter Stegen has been in contact with Klopp.

Nübel also has his chances. He joined Beşiktaş this summer and has been playing regularly. Ulreich is regarded as a goalkeeper for the future. However, this young Bayern Munich keeper, who is expected to succeed Neuer, is currently getting only sporadic playing time, leaving him short on match rhythm compared to his competitors.

Marc-André ter Stegen's situation is particularly unique. A longtime Germany starter, he missed the World Cup due to injury, and his last appearance for the national team was a year ago. Now, the Barcelona goalkeeper, on loan at Ajax, has reestablished himself as a reliable starter. Moreover, he has already been in contact with Klopp.

In an exclusive interview with Sky Sports, ter Stegen said: "We've had conversations. Very good conversations." The 34-year-old goalkeeper is also well aware of what matters most next. "Personally, I need to stay healthy right now. I think that's the most important thing."

So who else is in contention?

Klopp has scouted Damen.

Atubolu has transferred to Eintracht Frankfurt and is likely to be included in the expanded squad. However, the 24-year-old made a costly mistake in a recent Bundesliga match against Augsburg. Meanwhile, his rival Damen has drawn attention again.

The Augsburg goalkeeper has put in impressive performances and has drawn national team interest in the past. Klopp personally watched Augsburg's opening-day match, where they defeated Schalke 04 3-0.

Then Kariuc suddenly entered the conversation. The Schalke goalkeeper delivered an outstanding performance in a surprising 0-0 draw against Bayern Munich, and after the match was recommended for the Germany squad by several experts.

Both Matthäus and Hamann praised Kariuc.

Matthäus told Sky Sports: "A performance like today will certainly help him keep that door open." Germany's all-time appearance leader added with a touch of humor: "As far as I know, Kariuc has a German passport. Anyone with a German passport…"

Matthäus believes Klopp has not yet fully decided on the goalkeeper hierarchy. Beyond Baumann, he listed Marc-André ter Stegen, Nübel, Ulreich, Atubolu, and Kariuc as contenders for the upcoming national team matches. "If someone performs the way Kariuc did today and can do that consistently over several matches, he will naturally get attention," Matthäus emphasized.

Sky Sports expert Hamann also explicitly recommended the Schalke goalkeeper. Hamann believes Kariuc is "Schalke's greatest asset" and that his composure, experience, and presence are qualities needed at the highest level.

Now the decision rests with Klopp. One thing is certain: since Neuer's retirement from the national team, Germany's goalkeeper position has rarely been as wide open as it is now. With just over a week until the squad announcement, the battle for Germany's goal remains completely up in the air.

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