David Raum: Germany’s 2026 World Cup Secret Weapon at Full-Back

STUTTGART, GERMANY — MARCH 30, 2026: David Raum of Germany plays the ball during the international friendly match between Germany and Ghana on March 30, 2026 in Stuttgart, Germany. (Photo by Marcel Engelbrecht - firo sportphoto/Getty Images)

The Rise of a Modern Full-Back

David Raum has emerged as one of the most attack-oriented full-backs in world football. At RB Leipzig, he thrives as a creative force, consistently ranking among Bundesliga leaders in chance creation from wide defensive areas. His relentless energy and pinpoint delivery make him a constant outlet in Leipzig’s high-tempo system. Amidst frequent roster changes, Raum has become a steady presence—reliable, consistent, and driven.

Raum has also stepped into a leadership role at RB Leipzig this season, serving as a bridge between young talents and experienced players in a complex locker room dynamic. As a set-piece specialist, his free-kick and corner expertise could prove decisive for Germany in 2026.

An Attacking Mindset with High Risk, High Reward

Domestically, Raum operates almost like a winger, using overlapping runs, early crosses, and consistent attacking output to define his role. Despite his reputation as a threat, he continues to surprise opponents with his bold, confident style when in possession.

For the Germany national team, his impact is more nuanced. While his attacking instincts provide much-needed width, they can also expose defensive gaps. When managed effectively, however, Raum offers a dimension Germany has often lacked in recent tournaments.

Defensively, Raum is capable but must avoid overcommitting forward, a tendency that has caused issues in the past.

A Redemption Opportunity in 2026

Raum featured in the 2022 FIFA World Cup, where Germany suffered a group-stage exit. Though he showed attacking promise, the team’s defensive instability limited his influence. Now a favorite of manager Julian Nagelsmann, Raum’s ability to join the attack could pose a consistent threat to opponents in 2026. The question remains: Can he excel at both ends of the pitch?

Germany’s Path to the 2026 World Cup

The 28-year-old is now experienced and mature enough to adapt his game dynamically. For Raum, the 2026 World Cup is about balance. If Germany maintains possession and avoids defensive lapses, his attacking qualities could make him one of the tournament’s most impactful full-backs.

Germany’s 2026 World Cup Warm-Up Matches

• Germany vs Curaçao — June 13 — 1 p.m. ET from Houston (NRG Stadium)
• Germany vs Ivory Coast — June 20 — 4 p.m. ET from Toronto (BMO Field)
• Germany vs Ecuador — June 25 — 4 p.m. ET from East Rutherford, NJ (MetLife Stadium)

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