World Cup stars of the Bundesliga: Bayern Munich's Aleksandar Pavlović
Tenacious Bayern Munich midfielder Aleksandar Pavlović could play a key role in midfield for Julian Nagelsmann's Germany side at the FIFA 2026 World Cup this summer.
Name: Aleksandar Pavlović
Club: Bayern Munich
Nation: Germany
International debut: 3 June 2024
Caps: 9
International goals: 1
Stats correct as of 30 May 2026
How was his 2025/26 season?
Pavlović made 24 Bundesliga appearances in Bayern's triumphant double-winning season, with minor injuries and competition from Leon Goretzka restricting his starts in midfield to 16. He scored three goals, including a fine half-volley from just outside the box in the Bavarians' 3-2 home victory over Eintracht Frankfurt on Matchday 23.
The Bayern academy product also impressed during their European campaign, setting a new club record for completed passes (150) in their UEFA Champions League outing against Union Saint-Gilloise.
What he brings to the national team
Just like at Bayern, there is plenty of midfield competition in Julien Nagelsmann’s World Cup squad, with Felix Nmecha, Angelo Stiller and club teammate Goretzka all vying for a berth in the starting XI. Given the attributes he offers - which include pinpoint passing, an ability to dictate the tempo of a match and a tremendous work rate - it would be no surprise if Pavlović were to get the nod in North America.
A fearless competitor, the 22-year-old was forced to miss Germany's friendlies against Switzerland and Ghana in March with a hip complaint, and will therefore be eager to fight for a position as a starter when the curtain is raised on Germany's tournament campaign on 14 June in their first group-stage match against Curaçao.
What his coaches say
"Just like Thomas Müller or Lennart Karl, for example, 'Pavlo' is a player from the Bayern youth set-up, and they don’t fear anything." - Bayern head coach Vincent Kompany
"He embodies a lot of what I want in the No. 6 position and is also a cool guy and wants to win. I really, really like that." - Germany head coach Julian Nagelsmann
