After a very good season at Bayern Munich, Mats Hummels will look to continue to show his class with Germany at the World Cup in Russia.
When it comes to Joachim Low’s decision for starting center-backs at the World Cup, Mats Hummels will undoubtedly be the first name on the list. Hummels was very impressive last season at Bayern Munich, marshaling the Bavarian defense that was the best in the league.
Hummels’ major highlight of the season, however, was his nullification of Cristiano Ronaldo over the two Champions League semi-final legs. His heroics this season also earned him a place in the Bundesliga team of the season.
His skillsets
Hummels’ role in the German national team will be as leader of the backline. A major aspect of playing that Hummels is extremely good at is his positioning. He doesn’t have the pace to keep up with many of today’s forwards, so his game has been molded around smart positioning.
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Soccer is significantly based on being in the right place at the right time, especially in defense. Doing so allows a player enough time to make his decision and move accordingly. Defenders who have mastered this are nothing short of geniuses and are vital assets in any team. Mats Hummels is one of those defenders.
Many times, you will see him making numerous interceptions thanks to his superb positioning. In fact, according to Whoscored.com, Hummels averaged 2.1 interceptions per-game last season, the highest of any Bayern player and the equal highest for any defender in the Bundesliga.
Defensive advantage for Germany
At the World Cup in Russia one major edge that Hummels — along with his team — has over everyone is the fact that he has played with two out of the three other most likely members of the German defense, along with the goalkeeper.
When it comes to competitions of this nature, having good team chemistry is a big part of the winning formula. With a defensive genius like Hummels at the helm of things, Germany will not be expected to concede many goals. Even though he is not the captain of the unit, Hummels will be a Phillip Lahm-ish player leading, the defense with intelligence and finesse.
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Conclusion
Mats Hummels form and pure genius will be vital for his national team in the World Cup. His skill in marshaling a familiar defensive unit will be integral for Germany as they look to keep important clean sheets throughout the tournament.