Nagelsmann Changes Tactics: Woltemade Stays with Senior Team
Nagelsmann abandons initial strategy involving Sturmer and Woltemade
In a surprising twist, Germany's coach Julian Nagelsmann has decided against sending Nick Woltemade to the U21 team, as initially planned. Following his impressive debut against Portugal, Woltemade will play for the senior squad in the upcoming UEFA Nations League third-place match against France instead.
Previously, a discussion arose about sending Woltemade to the U21 team, as they prepare for the upcoming U21 EURO in Slovakia. With the juniors set to compete from June 11 to 28, Woltemade was expected to lead the team, backed by coach Antonio Di Salvo.
However, internal discussions within the DFB led to the decision that Woltemade would continue to be available to Julian Nagelsmann for the upcoming match. The coach had originally stated on Wednesday evening that they would likely send Woltemade to the U21 team, but this strategy has now changed[1].
This change in plans may be due to the senior team's requirements for the France match or Woltemade's noteworthy performance during his debut. Injuries to high-caliber offensive players like Jamal Musiala, Kai Havertz, and Tim Kleindienst in the senior squad may have also played a role in Nagelsmann's decision to keep Woltemade on board[3].
As for Woltemade, his A-team debut against Portugal was a challenging one, playing as a central striker. Despite facing tough opposition, he managed to secure a promising opportunity to score in the 19th minute, but Portugal's goalkeeper Diogo Costa successfully saved his shot. Julian Nagelsmann commended Woltemade's performance, stating that it was "okay" for his first international match and that he "can't expect miracles" from a young player[2].
Sources: ntv.de, tno/dpa
- DFB
- Football National Team
- Julian Nagelsmann
- UEFA Nations League
In the light of Nagelsmann's altered plans, the DFB's employment policy for the senior football team has been prioritized, keeping Nick Woltemade within the squad for the UEFA Nations League third-place match against France. Meanwhile, discussions about Woltemade's participation in the U21 EURO, slated for sports like football from June 11 to 28, have been temporarily postponed due to employment policy changes.
