FIFA World Cup 2018: How Germany should line up

The world is aware of the incredible squad depth boasted by Joachim Loew's Germany. There's no doubt that the defending champions are one of the strongest contenders heading to the mega-event in the summer.Recent performances of the German national side were not as convincing, losing 1-0 to Brazil and drawing 1-1 to Spain. But surely Loew would have extracted the positives out of it.The Germans can play in a wide variety of formations. Here we take a look at how Die Mannschaft should lineup in a 4-2-3-1 formation.Goalkeeper and DefendersThe best goalkeeper in the world?If the Germany captain is back to his best, there is no doubt about the first choice keeper; Manuel Neuer would be the one guarding the sticks for his national side. Neuer has been troubled by injuries this season but Loew would hope to see his captain fully fit again.The boss has so many alternatives for the goalkeeping spot but we go with the man in form, Marc-Andre.ter Stegen to the backup keeper for the team.Germany's defensive giantsThe defensive line will consist of three Bayern Munich players and FC Koln starter. The centre-back spots will be undoubtedly occupied by Jerome Boateng and Mats Hummels. These two together are arguably one of the best centre-back pairings in the world.Together they can provide everything to the team. These defenders are very strong physically and technically. Apart from their prowess in the air, everyone is also aware of the crucial tackles Hummels can make during the crucial stages of the game.Talking about the right-back spot, the retirement of Philipp Lahm was a major setback but Germans surely see a glimpse of their legend in the 23-year-old star, Joshua Kimmich. He has been a regular starter for Bayern Munich and also for his national side now.Kimmich has got all it takes to be a complete full-back. His passing, crossing and ability to read the game are commendable. The 23-year-old has 9 assists to his name, apart from creating 47 chances for his team in the Bundesliga so far. He will surely be one of those to watch out for during the World Cup.On the left-back position, we have Jonas Hector. Germany has not been very good with producing left-backs but the manager will be putting his faith in Hector. Unlike Kimmich, he is more about his defensive attributes.The full-back has made 30 interceptions and 49 clearances in his 13 games so far in the German league. So, Hector will be looking to cut out the opposition's plays on the flank.Niklas Sule and Shkodran Mustafi can be backup options for the centre-back spots, Marvin Plattenhardt and Benedikt Howedes can help out on the full-back positions.

FIFA World Cup 2018: How Germany should line up

Playing XI