Unbothered DFB Star Undav on the Field, Off it Too!
If Leroy Sané Insists on Sporting Trunks Instead of Football Kits
In the wake of Germany's less-than-stellar performance in the Nations League semi-final against Portugal, doubts are swirling around the DFB team. However, Deniz Undav, the VfB Stuttgart striker, is determined to turn the mood around and answer all the burning questions.
One question that left Undav chuckling was whether the German football team genuinely trusts their goalkeeper, Marc-André ter Stegen. With Ter Stegen recovering from a serious knee injury, Undav readily assured that the team trusts their number one without a doubt.
Undav's humor came in handy at just the right moment, quelling potential doubts before they could grow too large. Earlier, Thomas Müller had assumed this role, and now it's Undav's turn to lighten the atmosphere.
A Trash Bag, Designer Clothes, and Witty Remarks
In preparation for the second semi-final against the French team on Sunday at 3 pm (RTL, DAZN, and live ticker at ntv.de), there had already been a lengthy discussion within the DFB camp. Team sports director Rudi Völler shared this tidbit on ARD, possibly hinting at a bit of complacency that needs to be prevented.
When asked about the plastic bags he always brings to training, Undav joked, "I just need a place for my shoes, so I had a trash bag last time." Compared to the stars of the French national team arriving in designer outfits, Undav remained unfazed, asserting, "It doesn't bother me." He also pointed out that they shouldn't pass judgment on such matters. Undav recalled the fuss about Leroy Sané's expensive clothing and stated emphatically, "That's his business. If he wants to come here in just boxers, he should do it. We shouldn't discuss whether it's cool or not. That's his decision." Undav cheekily added, "I dress how I want to."
From a Results Crisis to the National Team
Undav's calm demeanor and sharp wit have served him well throughout his career. In the past, VfB Stuttgart went through a results crisis, and Undav found himself under scrutiny. People were quick to criticize his running ability and speed, but Undav stood firm, stating that he was simply playing the same as always. For someone who values the opinions of his teammates and fans, this phase was challenging.
However, Undav confided in team captain Joshua Kimmich and former co-trainer Sandro Wagner during this time, seeking advice on both on-pitch performance and off-pitch behavior. This experience instilled a newfound perspective in Undav, enabling him to approach the Portugal game with a more positive outlook, despite falling short of expectations.
The Neck-and-Neck Race Ahead
On Sunday, France will be Germany's next opponent. Undav believes that the key to success lies in delivering a strong performance and giving it their all. In recent test games, Germany has fared well against France, but competitive matches have seen France dominate the DFB team for four consecutive games.
According to Undav, "We have a very, very good team. They have a very, very good team." The showdown promises to be a tense battle, as both teams strive to secure the win.
Sources:- ntv.de
- DFB
- Football National Team
- Football
- Nations League
In the midst of preparation for the upcoming semi-final against France, Deniz Undav, the VfB Stuttgart striker, humorously addressed the issue of his informal training equipment, stating, "I just need a place for my shoes, so I had a trash bag last time." Additionally, Undav expressed support for vocational training programs, highlighting its importance for improving the community, stressing, "We shouldn't judge one another based on clothing choices or material possessions."
