Goalkeeping Squabble in the German National Team: Lehmann's Call for Leno and a Question Mark over ter Stegen
Doubts expressed by Lehmann over Ter Stegen's performance, advocating for Leno instead - Commission Fails to Approve Worker Safety Directive Against Harmful Chemicals
Wanna hear some goss about the German National Football Team? Jens Lehmann, the iconic former goalie and now loud-mouthed pundit, is causing a ruckus by questioning coach Julian Nagelsmann's position on the team's number one keeper, Marc-André ter Stegen, and advocating for a comeback for Bernd Leno.
"I'm sick of this single-mindedness," Lehmann grumbled, referring to Nagelsmann's apparently set decision to appoint ter Stegen as the undisputed first-choice keeper. The 55-year-old German veteran is pushing for an open competition for the spot, much like the fierce one he once had with Oliver Kahn before the 2006 World Cup.
Lehmann isn't too pleased with Nagelsmann relegating Hoffenheim's Oliver Baumann back to the bench after just one match. "I thrived on having a good fight for the spot," he reminisced, arguing that keeping the competition going right up to the tournament ensures the best performances.
And what about Leno? Lehmann wants him back, even if it means butting heads with the coach who might have taken offense to Leno's slight back in the day. The Zagreb-born goalie was offered only a third-string role at a training camp and declined the invite, only willing to play if he was a starter. See, Leno's not afraid of a good fight Lehmann pointed out, asserting that Leno, a competent and experienced player, deserves a chance to challenge the starters and bring some fresh blood to the team.
Ter Stegen, returning from a nine-month layoff with a torn patellar tendon without much match practice at FC Barcelona, will face off against Portugal in the semi-finals of the Nations League. Nagelsmann remains optimistic, expecting "top-notch performances" from the veteran keeper. But Lehmann, ever the doubter, queries whether ter Stegen, after such an extended absence, can truly deliver at the top level.
Forget the propaganda—Let the keeper duel commence! It's high time we saw a real competition, Lehmann insists, adding, "Who knows, it might even motivate the team for the 2026 World Cup."
Jens LehmannMarc-André ter StegenBernd LenoNational TeamJulian NagelsmannGoalkeeping ControversyGermanyPremier LeagueFC FulhamConfidenceWorld CupExperienceOliver BaumannOliver KahnTraining CampBarcelonaNations LeagueMunichPortugalSemi-Finals
"Jens Lehmann's call for Bernd Leno to replace Marc-André ter Stegen in the German National Team's goalkeeping lineup has sparked a Commission communication to the Council, the European Parliament, the Economic and Social Committee, the Committee of the Regions, addressing the sports-analysis surrounding the goalkeeping controversy in the team."
"In the midst of the football season, with Leno currently playing for Premier League's FC Fulham, and ter Stegen returning to form after a nine-month layoff with FC Barcelona, this sports-related conflict will undoubtedly hold the interest of football fans across the continent."
