Germany’s preparations for the upcoming international break have suffered a setback, with Bayern Munich midfielder Aleksandar Pavlović ruled out due to injury, forcing a late change in the squad.
The 21-year-old midfielder, who has been one of Bayern’s standout performers this season, will not join the German national team after struggling with a hip issue. The decision was taken as a precaution, with both club and national team staff opting against risking a more serious injury.
Pavlović had already shown signs of discomfort in recent matches, including being substituted during Bayern’s UEFA Champions League outing and missing a Bundesliga fixture.
Head coach Julian Nagelsmann has moved quickly to fill the gap, calling up Stuttgart midfielder Angelo Stiller as a replacement.
The reshuffle comes just days before Germany’s scheduled friendlies against Switzerland and Ghana—key fixtures as the team fine-tunes preparations ahead of major tournaments later this year.
Sources close to the situation suggest the decision was made with long-term fitness in mind. Pavlović has played a heavy run of games in recent weeks, and concerns grew that continuing could aggravate the injury.
Germany’s management preferred to err on the side of caution, especially given the player’s growing importance in midfield for both club and country.
Pavlović’s absence is a notable blow for Germany, as the young midfielder has quickly established himself as a reliable presence with his composure, passing, and tactical awareness.
While the injury is not believed to be long-term, his withdrawal highlights the increasing physical demands on emerging talents juggling club and international duties.
The immediate priority now is recovery, with expectations that Pavlović will return after the international break. Bayern Munich will be keen to have him fit for the decisive stretch of the season, while Germany will hope to reintegrate him soon as they build toward upcoming global competitions.
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