Nagelsmann Reconsiders Woltemade's U21 Departure After Nations League Effort
Coach Nagelsmann abandons initial strategy involving Sturmer and Woltemade
Facebook Twitter Whatsapp E-Mail Print Copy Link German coach Julian Nagelsmann praises newcomer Nick Woltemade following his debut against Portugal in the Nations League. Despite missing out on the Nations League final, the young striker might continue with the senior team after an impressive performance instead of joining the U21 squad.
Initially, Stuttgart's rising star Nick Woltemade was intended to join the U21 team preparing for the European Championship. However, following his A-team debut against Portugal, internal discussions have led to a change of plans. Now, Woltemade is set to stay with the senior squad after the third-place match on June 8.
Discussion about Woltemade's premature departure to the U21 team was on the table following Germany's 1:2 semi-final loss to Portugal. After the game, Nagelsmann had announced his intention to send Woltemade to the U21 side. But, it appears that plans have now shifted, with the 23-year-old remaining with the senior team.
According to sources, this decision was made following internal discussions between German football officials. Nagelsmann had made the agreement with U21 coach Antonio Di Salvo that Woltemade would join the junior team if Germany failed to make it to the final. However, it seems that the DFB have had a change of heart, opting to keep Woltemade on board for the third-place playoff.
A Home Game for Woltemade
The U21 team is currently gearing up for the European Championship, which will take place from June 11 to June 28 in Slovakia. Woltemade is expected to play a crucial role in the tournament, leading Team Di Salvo to the championship title.
On the other hand, the senior team will compete for third place in the Nations League on June 8, at a home venue for Woltemade. Given his strong performance and value to the team, Woltemade could still be crucial in securing a positive season finale for the senior team.
Due to the unavailability of key offensive players like Jamal Musiala, Kai Havertz, or Tim Kleindienst, Nagelsmann will already be short-staffed for the final four. Moreover, the U21 players will receive extra rest following a secret final EM test against Finland on June 6 in Frankfurt am Main.
The Bitter Disappointment of Captain Kimmich
In his A-team debut, Woltemade showed resilience against Portugal's defense, failing to score only due to a save by Portugal's goalkeeper Diogo Costa. Nagelsmann praised Woltemade's performance, stating that "for the first game, it was okay." Despite some initial mistakes, he believed that Woltemade handled his debut as the A-national player well.
Sources:
- ntv.de
- tno/dpa
- DFB
- Football National Team
- Julian Nagelsmann
- Nations League
The German football officials, including those responsible for the community policy and employment policy, have reconsidered their decision following the impressive performance of Nick Woltemade in the Nations League match against Portugal. Consequently, Woltemade might continue with the senior German football team for the upcoming third-place match on June 8, showcasing his football skills in a home game.
