He perfectly knows what the German synod is preparing, but he is not choosing those who could fight it, but those who seem to be more in line with it, even throwing Martin in the mix. I personally believe that he wants to allow same sex blessings at least, but doesn't want to be open about it publicly, so using allies that push him into accepting it will seem more like a charitable action by listening instead of a defiant move that comes directly from him.

I believe a schism cannot be avoided, it is just about with whom that schism will occur. I believe that his actions are pointing to a scenario where he will, apparently, have to accept the same sex blessings in order to avoid a schism, but that will create a schism with the traditional side of the Church. If he doesn't accept the German synod, then a schism can occur with them, but that would mean a schism with the world and with those he likes to receive in meetings. I doubt, at this moment, that he chooses the tradition over the world to be honest.