Grateful Goretzka: The Extra Piece in Nagelsmann's Puzzle
Esteemed Goretzka emerges as Nagelsmann's valuable addition - Midfielder Goretzka Serves as Nagelsmann's Backup Option
Call him Leon, the Bundesliga powerhouse or simply Germany's favorite midfielder, Leon Goretzka's been a force to reckon with in the football world. His eagerness for more trophies, especially another national title, shines bright before the Nations League semi-final against Portugal.
"I've got just the one title to my name with the national team, the Confederations Cup in 2017. It was special, and it's time for more," Goretzka asserted, reminiscing about his victory with a perspective team under coach Joachim Löw. After all, he's now part of the elite DFB quartet - Goretzka, Marc-André ter Stegen, Joshua Kimmich, and Sandro Wagner - who made it to Russia in 2017.
Just like the Nations League, the Confederations Cup was deemed a secondary event, and its significance was somewhat undervalued in Germany, according to Goretzka. Recalling his performance in the semi-final against Mexico, where he scored two goals in a 4-1 win and was named the match's MVP, he wouldn't mind reliving those moments. Fact: no current DFB player can boast a semi-final goal yet.
Julian Nagelsmann, coach of the national team, wouldn't mind either. Goretzka's "extraordinarily good" performance in the quarter-final against Italy in March was praised by Nagelsmann, now placing Goretzka in a more offensive role than a classic six, similar to Ilkay Gündogan during the Euros. "This position is where he can best showcase his skills," said Nagelsmann, adding that it provides an "additional component" in the penalty area.
In the past, Goretzka was not Nagelsmann's go-to player. His relegation to a substitute role at Bayern Munich and being left out of the home Euros were tough times. However, Goretzka's comeback and return as a regular national team player has been marked by sheer determination and dedication.
Gratitude has been a significant part of his journey, with Goretzka being deeply grateful for each opportunity. As he gears up for his 60th international match against Portugal, he acknowledged the difficult phase he had to surmount to make this comeback. "The situation has perhaps changed now that I am even more grateful because I realize the challenging journey I had to take to get back here," he said. His new-found appreciation was something he had to instill within himself, making his current gratitude more effortless. "I'm just thrilled to be back," he added.
- Leon Goretzka
- Julian Nagelsmann
- Football National Team
- Portugal
- DFB
- National Team Setup
- Germany
- Munich
- Title Win
- Confederations Cup
- Nations League
- Joshua Kimmich
- Sandro Wagner
- Marc-André ter Stegen
- Joachim Löw
- Iconic Performance
- Comeback
- Gratitude
Digging Deeper
Leon Goretzka has been a fundamental player in the German national team under Julian Nagelsmann, particularly in recent tournaments.
Leon Goretzka's Role Under Julian Nagelsmann
Goretzka's contributions have been significant in tournaments like the Nations League. In the 2025 finals, he was instrumental in the team's midfield, bringing both tenacity and skill to the table[1][3].
Return to Form
Despite a period of uncertainty about his future with both Bayern Munich and the national team, Goretzka has made a resurgence. He has regained his spot in the national team and has been crucial in recent matches[2][3].
Past Performances in Major Tournaments
Goretzka has consistently delivered for the Nations League and has used his experience to contribute to the team's midfield stability[3]. Although there's no recent mention of Goretzka in Confederations Cups, his overall performance in international tournaments has been commendable. His exclusion from the Euro 2024 squad was a significant disappointment, but he has since been recalled and is making a difference under Nagelsmann[2].
Impact and Future
Goretzka has pledged his loyalty to Bayern Munich, intending to see out his current contract in 2026 and continues to prioritize both club and national football[2]. The futurity of his role in the German national team remains significant, given his recent performances and the team's reliance on his skills.
Leon Goretzka's influence in the German national team, particularly in recent tournaments like the Nations League, is undeniable. His exceptional midfield play in the 2025 finals illustrates his essential role under Julian Nagelsmann, bringing together tenacity and skill.
Despite a period of doubt about his future with both Bayern Munich and the national team, Goretzka has made a comeback. His return as a regular national team player is a testament to his unwavering dedication and determination, and he has been vital in recent matches, much like his iconic performance in the Confederations Cup semi-final against Mexico in 2017. This comeback has only increased Goretzka's sense of gratitude, as he acknowledges the challenging journey he had to undertake to return to the national setup.
