Gary Lineker criticizes current Germany squad ahead of World Cup knockout stage

Former England international Gary Lineker has shared a harsh assessment of the current Germany national team. Ahead of their 2026 World Cup round-of-32 clash against Paraguay, the pundit expressed significant doubts regarding the squad's competitive level.

I think it is one of the weakest German sides I have ever seen. France should have no problem reaching the quarter-finals. Germany is living in the past. Just remember they didn't even make it out of the group stage in the last two World Cups. So, I think you can all sleep easy. Gary Lineker

Media speculation regarding a potential clash between Germany and France in the following round has intensified as both nations finalize preparations for their respective knockout matches. France is set to face Sweden in their round-of-32 fixture.