Southampton defender Armel Bella Kotchap is ‘probably not a serious candidate’ for Germany’s World Cup squad, despite his inclusion in the squad for this international break.
The youngster is a part of Hansi Flick’s squad for the upcoming set of international fixtures, his first call up to the senior side.
His surprise inclusion has caused a lot of debate in Germany, particularly as he has made the squad ahead of the likes of Mats Hummels.
There have been various reports from Germany on why he has been called up, with it explained that Flick wanted a closer look at the defender after receiving positive reports from several sources, including Southampton manager Ralph Hassenhüttl.
FAZ follow that up today, stating Bella-Kotchap’s ‘has caused some surprise’ and debate is now raging about whether he’ll be in the squad for the World Cup.
His performances for Southampton are ‘catching the eye’ in Germany, hence his call-up, as he had struggled slightly with Bochum.
There is a belief that while he is tall, strong and quick he struggles to get involved in build-up play and his passing game is still his ‘biggest weakness’.
It is because of this he is ‘probably not a serious candidate’ for the World Cup given the competition in the position but Flick wants to get a closer, personally look at him regardless.
This is backed up by the Germany coach himself, who has commented on the defender to DFB website.
“We haven’t planned him for the first team yet,” he said.
“He showed himself well, acted with confidence. He has very good physical conditions, is fast and good in the air.
“He made a very good impression. It was important to see him again in this international phase. We have a clear idea of how we want to play.
“It is adapted to the respective opponents in nuances. It will always be the case that we adapt individual things to the opponent.
“It may also be that we have players with qualities in certain areas. The players know what we expect from them.”
