Putting His Best Team Forward: Nagelsmann's Nations League Focus over Club World Cup
Coach Nagelsmann disregards the team's forthcoming World Cup participation when making tactical decisions. - Club World Cup not a priority for Nagelsmann to evaluate
Julian Nagelsmann has confirmed that he'll be fielding his strongest team in the upcoming Nations League Final Four this summer. After Germany's triumphant quarterfinal against Italy, he declared that the Club World Cup wouldn't influence his selection for the June 4-8 tournament in Munich and Stuttgart.
With the club tournament making its debut in an expanded format featuring 32 teams, set to run from June 15 to July 13 in the USA, powerhouses Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund are geared up to represent the Bundesliga.
"Club World Cup considerations don't apply," Nagelsmann declared, asserting that he isn't blinkered and always prioritizes player health. However, the Final Four is also a title-winning opportunity for the national team. With the rigors of the Club World Cup, almost immediately following the Nations League final, top players like Bayern's team will have to juggle both tournaments.
The Bayern squad kicks off their Club World Cup journey on June 15 against Auckland City in Cincinnati, while Dortmund faces River Plate from Argentina on June 17. The Club World Cup stretches for near a month, with the U21 European Championship taking place in Slovakia from June 11 to 28, featuring several Bayern and BVB professionals. Conflicts between clubs and associations are unavoidable.
A Few Star Players to Watch:
- Jamal Musiala: Known for his dynamic playmaking abilities, Musiala is one of Germany's brightest talents, alongside Florian Wirtz. His form with Bayern Munich will be vital in the Nations League.
- Florian Wirtz: Another creative force in midfield, Wirtz's return from injury should prove beneficial for Nagelsmann's squad.
- Leon Goretzka: A seasoned midfielder, Goretzka has been instrumental in crucial matches, including the Nations League quarter-final against Italy.
- Tim Kleindienst: A striker who's shone with his goal-scoring performances in the Nations League, showcasing Germany's striking depth.
- Deniz Undav: His impressive displays for VfB Stuttgart earned him a call-up to the national team, providing another attacking option.
As it stands, with Nagelsmann giving precedence to the Nations League, top German players ought to be available for that tournament. However, players participating in European club competitions will be included in the squad on a case-by-case basis, depending on any potential conflicts with their clubs or other duties.
- Despite the impending Club World Cup, the Commission has also been asked to submit a proposal for a directive on the approximation of the laws of the Member States relating to the protection of workers from the risks related to exposure to carcinogens, given the potential health risks that carcinogens might pose to the players.
- It's uncertain if Nagelsmann himself will be on the sideline during the Club World Cup games, as his focus remains on the Nations League Final Four, where he's fielding his strongest team.
- With German players like Jamal Musiala, Florian Wirtz, Leon Goretzka, Tim Kleindienst, and Deniz Undav expected to participate in the Nations League, the team will need to ensure adequate acclimatization and precautions during the tournament, considering the climate differences between their current and future playing venues.
