World Cup 2018: 10 Potential Breakout Stars

4. Julian Brandt (Germany)

Julian Brandt Rio 2016
By Agência Brasil Fotografias (Seleção masculina Alemã de futebol vence a Nigéria) [CC BY 2.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0)], via Wikimedia Commons

Joachim Low's decision to drop the explosive Leroy Sane for Leverkusen's Julian Brandt provoked widespread shock this week, particularly among English Premier League fans, who've just watched the 22-year-old star in Manchester City's title-winning season. The coach's reasoning was sound, though. Sane, as talented as he is, has never impressed for the national side, and while Low promises the City man will be back, for now, he prefers Brandt's more balanced set of skills.

Julian Draxler's lack of PSG starts could free a starting berth. If so, there's every chance Brandt will prove the doubters wrong on Germany's left flank. While not as explosive as Sane, he's a well-rounded winger who loves cutting inside to create chaos in opposing boxes. This makes him a great fit for Low's system, which calls for the full-backs to rush up and down the flank all game long, freeing the wide midfielders to fluidly transition into more central positions.

The reigning champions are among the favourites, and will likely embark upon a deep tournament run. In three-to-seven games, Brandt could well secure his reputation as one of Europe's most emergent young stars.

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