This combo photo shows Bayern's Leroy Sane, left, and Chelsea's Kai Havertz. (PHOTO / AFP)
BERLIN - Germany's first pre-tournament preparation phase has produced several winners and losers in Joachim Low's squad.
A week ahead of the 2014 World Champions' UEFA 2020 Euro curtain-raiser against France, the German coach might still puzzle over his line-up against the 2018 World Champion but seems to have gained first insights.
Despite the longest-serving national coach racking his brain about his starting eleven, 10 days of intensive training have influenced his perspective despite a 7-1 win against underdog Latvia this Monday evening.
The returnees Thomas Muller (Bayern) and Mats Hummels (Dortmund) seem safely booked aside Joshua Kimmich, Manuel Neuer (Bayern), and Toni Kroos (Real), while others have lost ground.
Bayern's new arrival Leroy Sane won't find himself on the pitch for kick-off against France, while Chelsea's Golden Boy Kai Havertz can be seen as one of the profiteers.
ALSO READ: UEFA expects 8b euros losses for top-flight clubs due to virus
Winners
Kai Havertz
Courage, self-confidence, creativity, and determination - the Blues' new arrival addressed all of Low's demands after having scored the winning goal in the 2021 Champions League final against Manchester City. The 21-year-old developed into an inspiring source in the team's front line.
Robin Gosens
The Bergamo defender is one of Germany's upstarts covering the left flank. Whether featuring in a back-row of four or three (then further up in midfield), the 26-year-old delivered dynamic, courageous sprints and deadly passes upfront.
Antonio Ruediger
The Chelsea player might benefit from the current dip in form of Niklas Suele and delivered solid defending, not only for his club but also the national team. The 28-year-old undoubtedly has reached his career-high after a stunning season in the Premier League since coach Thomas Tuchel took over.
Thomas Mueller
The Bayern icon came back and right away gained back his leading role. Aside from Low, the Bavarian icon is seen as the team's on-pitch coach.
Mats Hummels
The experienced leader is set to start next to Ruediger as part of Low's axis, providing the frame for the German team. Not many in the squad can read a game as he can, and also has valuable contributions opening the game from the back.
Losers
Leroy Sane
Having achieved an upswing in his first season with Bayern, a long way back to happiness seem to lie ahead of the winger in the national team. The 25-year-old didn't meet expectations as his actions too often appear sloppy. His body language indicates uncertainty.
Kevin Volland
Returning to the national team after 5 years, the Monaco forward is the only true box-striker in the German squad. Not being appointed by Low against Latvia might be a hint that Volland is the only third choice.
READ MORE: UEFA fines Ibrahimovic 50,000 euros for links to betting firm
Niklas Suele
Not only does his future at Bayern seems uncertain after a poor season, including an injury, but Suele has also lost his place as a regular and is Low's number 3 or 4 when it comes to the job in the center of defense.
Ilkay Guendogan
The 30-year-old not only scored 13 league goals in England but delivered his best season. Unfortunately, he faces fierce competition in Germany's packed midfield as Toni Kroos, Leon Goretzka, and Joshua Kimmich are likely starters.
Timo Werner
Sane, Serge Gnabry, Havertz, Mueller - the list of his rivals seem endless. Werner might have to accept the role of a substitute.