German outlet Welt has called for Leroy Sane to remain in the starting lineup for Germany's upcoming World Cup match against Ivory Coast, arguing that the Bayern Munich winger's contributions extend beyond his recent goal-scoring struggles.
The piece highlights that despite missing several clear chances in the tournament opener, Sane has earned significant backing from his teammates, a factor the publication suggests is undervalued in the current debate over his form.
The call for Sane to start comes as the national team navigates the early stages of the World Cup, a tournament that also marks the final global appearances for football legends Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi.
While the narrative around those two stars has been sharply divided—with Messi delivering standout performances and Ronaldo facing criticism for limited impact—the German camp is focused on internal dynamics and tactical cohesion rather than the broader generational transition.
Sane's situation reflects a common tension in elite football: the gap between statistical output and intangible influence.
Welt's analysis suggests that his movement, link-up play, and the trust he has built within the squad are critical assets that do not always show up in match reports but are vital for maintaining team structure.