Leweling’s comments followed the presentation of a signed Brazil shirt from Ronaldo, after the former striker was shown an AI-generated image of the Germany player wearing the hairstyle. Leweling has reportedly explained that the idea began as a joke before attracting far more attention than expected.
There is, of course, still a long road between a group-stage promise and a trophy celebration. Ronaldo’s haircut remains one of football’s most recognisable tournament images, forever linked with Brazil’s successful campaign in 2002. For Leweling, copying it would be an extravagant but memorable way to mark Germany’s triumph.
Germany have made a strong start, with wins over Curaçao and Ivory Coast securing top spot in their group before the final meeting with Ecuador. The report says the team are not expected to ease off significantly, despite already confirming their place at the top.
A major feature of that progress has been the influence of the substitutes. Deniz Undav came off the bench to score both goals against Ivory Coast, while Nadiem Amiri also contributed after entering the match. Leweling, who plays alongside Undav at VfB Stuttgart, has reportedly described the striker’s return to the international setup as fully deserved.
Leweling has also highlighted Ecuador’s quality, particularly the experience of players competing at the highest level in Europe. Germany will need to match that intensity while maintaining the energy that has carried them through their opening games.
The next step is Thursday’s clash with Ecuador, followed by a last-16 tie in Boston. If Germany continue progressing, Leweling’s haircut vow could shift from a funny press-conference moment into one of the tournament’s most anticipated celebrations.