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Germany’s Euro 2026 squad sparks controversy with key omissions

A bold selection or a costly mistake? Berlin’s handball elite question Gislason’s choices as Germany gears up for Euro 2026. The drama unfolds before the first whistle.

, and ASMedia

2025 December 17 . 3:21 PM

1 min read

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Freeholder not in EM squad: Hanning criticizes Gislason - Germany’s Euro 2026 squad sparks controversy with key omissions

Germany’s head coach Alfred Gislason has named a 20-player preliminary squad for the EHF Euro 2026 tournament. The selection includes experienced names but leaves out some familiar faces, sparking criticism from club officials. Füchse Berlin boss Bob Hanning has openly questioned the decision to exclude left winger Tim Freihöfer.

Gislason’s squad features left wingers Fabian Wiede, Patrick Groetzki, and Kai Häfner, but Freihöfer—part of the initial 35-man provisional roster—did not make the final cut. Only two players from Füchse Berlin, Nils Lichtlein and Matthes Langhoff, secured their spots in the team.

Germany’s Euro 2026 campaign begins with a challenging group stage. The final squad reflects Gislason’s choices, though the omission of Freihöfer has drawn sharp criticism. The team now focuses on preparation, aiming to replicate past success in the upcoming tournament.