No U21 visit so far: DFB boss criticizes Nagelsmann as a "German phenomenon"
So far, Nagelsmann’s applause has only come from afar.
(Photo: dpa)
The German national team (DFB) is fighting its way to the semifinals of the U21 European Championship, and everything could be so wonderful if it weren't for one flaw: national coach Julian Nagelsmann hasn't been able to watch any matches in person yet. This is causing criticism. The DFB (German Football Association) can't understand why.
DFB Managing Director Andreas Rettig has little sympathy for the criticism directed at national coach Julian Nagelsmann for his absence from the U21 European Championship. "This is a bit of a German phenomenon. Jogi Löw was criticized as national coach because he allegedly only watches the games in Freiburg. With Jürgen Klinsmann, the country collapsed when he wasn't diligent enough to sit in the stands at the games. And so on and so forth. I would like to participate in this discussion," Rettig told Sky.
Unlike Rettig and DFB sporting director Rudi Völler, Nagelsmann has not yet watched a German U21 match in Slovakia in the stadium. However, a visit should the team reach the final is at least planned. On Wednesday, the semifinal (9 p.m./Sat.1 and in the ntv.de live ticker) against France will take place. Rettig and Völler will be in Kosice again.
Rettig also pointed out that other national coaches hadn't been to Slovakia yet. "I didn't see Mr. Tuchel, Mr. Deschamps, or any other coaches. Mr. Gattuso was there because he just started his new job," Rettig said. Gennaro Gattuso took over the Italian national team a few days ago. Thomas Tuchel is the coach of the England senior national team, Didier Deschamps of the French.
"We are impressed overall"Nagelsmann follows the U21s closely, Rettig emphasized. "You can be sure that Julian not only takes a great interest, but also focuses on the content of the games. We are in very close contact regarding both teams. Rudi Völler spoke with him several times on the phone on match day. You can assume that he cares a lot about the team's well-being," said the DFB managing director.
Rettig said his assessment of the European Championship so far is positive. "Overall, we're impressed by the quality of the games," he said. Nick Woltemade, in particular, has shown exceptional talent with his five goals so far: "You don't have to be a football expert to see that, but Nick is playing an outstanding European Championship, among others. It's a great pleasure to watch."
Source: ntv.de, ara/sid
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