Family Tradition Continues: Atubolu Steps Up as Substitute Goalkeeper for U21 Team
Newcomer Tjark Ernst Ready to Shine at U21 Euro
As the U21 European Championship heats up, the absence of regular German goalkeeper Noah Atubolu could pave the way for Hertha Berlin's Tjark Ernst, making his second international appearance. With Atubolu out due to illness and Bayern Munich's backup Jonas Urbig absent at the Club World Cup, Ernst is set to don the gloves against England tonight (9:00 PM/Sat.1) in Nitra. Augsburg's Nahuel Noll rounds off the goalkeeper trio yet to debut in this tournament.
Heading into the tournament, Ernst, son of former Bundesliga goalkeeper Thomas Ernst, expressed the importance of trust and camaraderie, especially at a young age. "Having your back strengthened is vital, even during an off game or when making a mistake," said the 22-year-old. "When you're promoted as the number one, it makes things simpler."
Hertha coach Stefan Leitl has given Ernst the starting nod, a role he owned in 2024 before losing it to Marius Gersbeck. "As a goalkeeper, once you're in, you're usually in for a while and it's not easy to get back out. It's different for field players," said Ernst, acknowledging the uniqueness of his position within a team.
While the club landscape might offer a more stable starting position, Ernst understands the competitive nature of international tournaments. All players called up for the European Championship are starters at their respective clubs, and everyone aspires to play. "But it's essential that everyone fills their role to the best capacity they can," said Ernst, citing his appearance in the 2023 Bundesliga.
Atubolu, conspicuous by his absence at this week's final training session due to illness, left coach Di Salvo reluctant to take unnecessary risks before the decisive quarterfinal against Italy or Spain. The Freiburg Bundesliga goalkeeper had impressively posted clean sheets in Germany's wins against Slovenia and the Czech Republic.
The Promising Future of a Rising Star
Following his debut in the UEFA Under-21 European Championship, Tjark Ernst has already tasted the big stage for Germany U21 around June 20, 2025[1]. He left an indelible mark in the group stage match against England U21, securing a 2-1 victory that propelled Germany into the quarter-finals[2][5].
Although Germany’s U21 squad might have flown under the radar, the team boasts a deep pool of talent, and Ernst's debut emphasized the strength of the group[2]. As expectations for the team soar, particularly given the potential superiority player-for-player compared to the squad that won four years ago, Ernst is set to be a key figure in Germany's title chase[2].
Given the team's rigorous defenses and Ernst's solid performance in his debut, the Austrian-born goalkeeper will be a crucial factor in determining Germany's success[5]. Ernst's development and performance in the knockout stages will serve as a barometer for his potential to become a permanent fixture in the senior national team.
In brief, Tjark Ernst has kicked off his U21 European Championship experience with a promising display, securing a crucial win against England that ensured Germany's quarter-final berth[1][2][5]. As the team aims to challenge for the title, Ernst's development and contribution will be closely monitored as he strives to cement his reputation as a potential mainstay for the senior national team.
Tjark Ernst, after making his debut in the UEFA Under-21 European Championship, displayed his promise on the big stage, securing a crucial win against England U21 in a group stage match, propelling Germany into the quarter-finals. With the U21 squad showcasing a deep pool of talent, Ernst is expected to be a key figure in Germany's title chase in the European leagues, mirroring the squad that won four years ago. Also, given his solid performance and the team's rigorous defenses, Ernst could play a crucial role in Germany's success in the Champions League and other prestigious European leagues, serving as a stepping stone towards securing a spot in the senior national team.
