With the new X 18+ warming up the crowd for the World Cup festival, adidas are on the verge of introducing their headliners as another leading player picks up his next-generation boots for the summer showdown.

Julian Draxler has joined up with Germany teammates at their training base in Northern Italy wearing the upcoming Nemeziz 18+ boots which are set to launch as part of the full "Energy Mode" collection next week, once the X 18+ has solo danced in the Kiev spotlights.

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On first inspection the second-generation boot isn't a million miles away from the AgilityWrap of the first Nemeziz 17. Subtle upgrades are visible on the silhouette, most notably the altered mid-cut collar which has been increased in height, especially around the inside of the ankle. Draxler will be joined by the likes of Jesse Lingard, Roberto Firmino, and Lucas Vazquez when the tournament kicks off next month. Feeling that flag personalisation on the inside heel, too. Smart.

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Stay tuned for a first look at the full adidas "Energy Mode" 2018 World Cup collection...