Germany's 2014 World Cup Winning Team: Where Are They Now?

by Jhon Lennon 59 views

The 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil was a tournament to remember, and for German football fans, it was the pinnacle of success. Die Mannschaft, led by coach Joachim Löw, showcased a blend of tactical brilliance, teamwork, and individual talent that saw them lift the coveted trophy. But what has become of the stars who brought glory to Germany that summer? Let's take a look at the key players from that squad and explore where they are now.

The Goalkeepers

  • Manuel Neuer: Arguably the best goalkeeper in the world at the time, Manuel Neuer's performances in 2014 were nothing short of legendary. His ability to act as a sweeper-keeper, combined with his incredible shot-stopping skills, made him a crucial asset for Germany. After the World Cup victory, Neuer continued to be a mainstay for both Bayern Munich and the German national team. He has won numerous Bundesliga titles and Champions League crowns. Even with age and injuries catching up, Neuer remains a towering figure in German football, mentoring the next generation of goalkeepers and still performing at a high level when fit. Neuer's impact extends beyond his goalkeeping abilities; he has been a leader and an inspiration for aspiring footballers worldwide. His innovative style of play has revolutionized the position, and he's considered by many to be one of the greatest goalkeepers of all time. His contributions to Bayern Munich and the German national team have solidified his place in football history.

  • Roman Weidenfeller: As the experienced backup goalkeeper, Roman Weidenfeller provided valuable support and leadership within the squad. Although he didn't feature in any matches during the tournament, his presence in the dressing room was vital. Weidenfeller spent the majority of his career with Borussia Dortmund, where he won two Bundesliga titles and reached the Champions League final. After retiring from professional football, Weidenfeller has remained involved in the sport through various media appearances and coaching roles. He is a respected figure in German football, known for his loyalty and commitment to his clubs. Weidenfeller's career is a testament to the importance of experience and dedication, and he continues to contribute to the sport in his retirement.

  • Ron-Robert Zieler: The third-choice goalkeeper in the squad, Ron-Robert Zieler gained valuable experience being part of the World Cup-winning team. While he didn't see any playing time, the experience of training alongside world-class players like Neuer and Weidenfeller was invaluable. Zieler has had a journeyman career, playing for clubs in Germany, England, and now currently in Hannover 96. He continues to be a reliable goalkeeper, showcasing his shot-stopping abilities and leadership qualities. Zieler's career demonstrates the importance of perseverance and adaptability in professional football. He has faced numerous challenges throughout his career, but he has always remained committed to his craft.

The Defenders

  • Philipp Lahm: The captain of the 2014 World Cup-winning team, Philipp Lahm was a true leader on and off the pitch. His tactical intelligence, versatility, and unwavering commitment made him an indispensable part of the squad. Lahm announced his retirement from international football immediately after the World Cup triumph, focusing solely on his club career with Bayern Munich. He retired from professional football in 2017, having won numerous titles, including eight Bundesliga titles and a Champions League crown. Since retiring, Lahm has remained involved in football as an ambassador for the German Football Association and has also pursued various business ventures. He is a respected figure in German society, known for his integrity and leadership. Lahm's legacy as one of the greatest defenders of all time is secure.

  • Jerome Boateng: A rock in the center of defense, Jerome Boateng's strong tackling, aerial ability, and composure under pressure were crucial to Germany's success. Boateng continued to play for Bayern Munich after the World Cup, winning numerous titles. After a successful stint with Bayern Munich, he played for Lyon and Salernitana. Boateng's career has been marked by both triumphs and controversies, but his talent and athleticism are undeniable.

  • Mats Hummels: Alongside Boateng, Mats Hummels formed a formidable central defensive partnership. Hummels' excellent reading of the game, passing ability, and aerial prowess made him a key player for Germany. After the World Cup win, Hummels moved from Borussia Dortmund to Bayern Munich and then back to Dortmund. He remains a key player for Borussia Dortmund. Hummels' experience and leadership are invaluable to his team. He is also known for his outspokenness and social activism.

  • Benedikt Höwedes: A versatile defender, Benedikt Höwedes was capable of playing in multiple positions across the backline. His adaptability and commitment made him a valuable asset to the squad. Höwedes spent the majority of his career with Schalke 04 before moving to Juventus and Lokomotiv Moscow. He retired from professional football in 2020 and has since pursued other interests, including media work and coaching. Höwedes' career is a testament to the importance of versatility and dedication in professional football.

  • Erik Durm: As a young and promising full-back, Erik Durm was part of the World Cup squad, providing depth and competition in the defensive positions. Durm's career has been marked by injuries, but he has always shown resilience and determination. He is currently playing for FC Kaiserslautern. Durm's story is an inspiring one, demonstrating the importance of perseverance in the face of adversity.

  • Matthias Ginter: Another young defender in the squad, Matthias Ginter gained valuable experience being part of the World Cup-winning team. Ginter has become a mainstay in the German national team. He is known for his versatility and ability to play in multiple positions. Ginter's career is a testament to the importance of hard work and continuous improvement.

  • Kevin Großkreutz: A versatile player known for his work rate and passion, Kevin Großkreutz provided energy and commitment to the squad. Großkreutz has faced numerous challenges in his career, but he has always remained true to himself. He is a popular figure among fans. Großkreutz's story is an inspiring one, demonstrating the importance of passion and dedication in professional football.

The Midfielders

  • Bastian Schweinsteiger: A midfield maestro, Bastian Schweinsteiger was the engine of the German team. His passing range, tackling ability, and leadership qualities were essential to Germany's success. Schweinsteiger continued to play for Bayern Munich after the World Cup before moving to Manchester United and then to Chicago Fire. He retired from professional football in 2019 and has since become a media pundit and football analyst. Schweinsteiger is a respected figure in German football, known for his intelligence and leadership. His legacy as one of the greatest midfielders of all time is secure.

  • Toni Kroos: Known for his precision passing and tactical awareness, Toni Kroos was a vital cog in the German midfield. Kroos continued to be a key player for Real Madrid, winning numerous Champions League titles and La Liga titles. Toni Kroos has recently retired from professional football after winning another Champions League trophy with Real Madrid. He is widely regarded as one of the best midfielders of his generation.

  • Sami Khedira: A box-to-box midfielder, Sami Khedira provided energy, tackling ability, and goal-scoring threat to the German team. Khedira played for Juventus after the World Cup. He retired from professional football in 2021. Khedira is a respected figure in German football, known for his work ethic and determination.

  • Christoph Kramer: An unexpected inclusion in the starting lineup for the final due to an injury to Khedira, Christoph Kramer had a memorable but unfortunate game, suffering a concussion. Kramer continues to play in the Bundesliga. He is known for his resilience and determination.

  • Mesut Özil: An attacking midfielder with exceptional vision and passing ability, Mesut Özil was a creative force in the German team. Özil played for Arsenal after the World Cup. He retired from professional football in 2023. Özil's career has been marked by both triumphs and controversies, but his talent and creativity are undeniable.

  • Mario Götze: The scorer of the winning goal in the final, Mario Götze etched his name into German football folklore. Götze played for Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund after the World Cup. He is currently playing for Eintracht Frankfurt. Götze's career has been marked by ups and downs, but he will always be remembered for his World Cup-winning goal.

  • André Schürrle: A versatile attacker, André Schürrle provided pace, skill, and goal-scoring ability to the German team. Schürrle played for Wolfsburg and Borussia Dortmund after the World Cup. He retired from professional football in 2020. Schürrle's career was marked by moments of brilliance, but he struggled with consistency.

The Forwards

  • Thomas Müller: A unique and versatile forward, Thomas Müller's intelligence, movement, and goal-scoring ability made him a nightmare for defenders. Müller continued to be a key player for Bayern Munich. He is known for his unconventional style of play and his ability to find space in the box. Müller is a beloved figure in German football, known for his humor and personality.

  • Miroslav Klose: The all-time leading scorer in World Cup history, Miroslav Klose provided experience, leadership, and a clinical finishing touch to the German team. Klose retired from professional football after the World Cup and has since become a coach. He is currently working as a coach for the Bayern Munich youth academy. Klose is a respected figure in German football, known for his humility and dedication.

  • Lukas Podolski: A powerful and direct forward, Lukas Podolski provided energy, passion, and a goal-scoring threat to the German team. Podolski played for Arsenal, Inter Milan, Galatasaray and Vissel Kobe after the World Cup. He is currently playing for Gornik Zabrze. Podolski is a popular figure in German football, known for his sense of humor and his connection to the fans.

The 2014 World Cup-winning team will forever be remembered in German football history. While the players have moved on to different stages of their careers, their legacy as champions remains intact. Their unity, skill, and determination inspired a nation and provided a moment of glory that will never be forgotten.