Football News: Germany Poised for Victorious Home Campaign at Euro 2024
Germany Manager Calls for Focused Approach
Julian Nagelsmann, the Germany manager, has called on his players to channel their nervous energy into a triumphant home tournament at Euro 2024. The national team faces Scotland in the opening match on Friday night, and Nagelsmann is confident his squad can handle the high expectations placed upon them.
“I think we’re a bit nervous, but it’s an important point. We have to have a certain nervousness,” Nagelsmann said. “There was such a buzz in the camp, a bit like in school. It was really loud: ‘Can everyone please calm down a bit!'”
Renewed Optimism and Veteran Leadership
There is a renewed sense of optimism surrounding the host nation, who have revived their fortunes since the turn of the year after disappointing performances in recent competitions. Nagelsmann, who will be managing at a major finals for the first time, acknowledges the nerves within his team but believes they can be harnessed to gather decisive momentum.
The return of veteran midfielder Toni Kroos, who will retire from international football after the tournament, has been a significant boost for the German squad. Nagelsmann revealed the delicate process of persuading Kroos to be a part of the team, with the 2014 World Cup winner initially stating he would only return if he believed Germany could win Euro 2024.
“He’s so important for us, very calm on the pitch and important for the whole squad,” Nagelsmann said. “In November, we had our first phone call about this topic. It took a bit of time as he wanted to know the future of the national team. He said in one of our calls that he’d only be part of the side if he thought we could win. I had to persuade him a bit, but in the end, it was: ‘Let’s rock.'”
Focused on the Task Ahead
Germany, who have stumbled in recent major tournaments, are determined to put their past failures behind them and focus on the task at hand. Nagelsmann is adamant that his players are not burdened by the ghosts of the past, and their sole focus is on becoming one of the best teams in the competition and ultimately winning the trophy.
Scotland, despite being the heavy underdogs, have caught Nagelsmann’s attention with their evolving style of play. The Germany manager praised the Scottish team’s work ethic and their ability to play attractive football, suggesting they may operate with a sense of freedom compared to his own squad.
As Germany prepares for their opening match, Nagelsmann is confident in his team’s abilities and believes they have everything they need to achieve success on home soil. The stage is set for a thrilling Euro 2024 campaign, and Germany will be determined to deliver a triumphant performance for their passionate supporters.
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