No need for digging fields, according to Nagelsmann
Kickback in Stuttgart: An Unperturbed Nagelsmann
Stuttgart (dpa) - Julian Nagelsmann remains undeterred as he refuses to see any drop in motivation for the German national football team in the third-place playoff against France. The youthful coach barked, "No pussyfooting here, we've still got the mighty German football team!" at the Stuttgart Arena on Saturday evening.
"Let's make the most of this game," Nagelsmann gauntleted, setting the tone for the third-place showdown at 3:00 PM/RTL and DAZN on Sunday in Stuttgart. He's adamant that the third place is the last thing on Germany's minds. Instead, it's about gear shifts for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers, rankings climbing, and a workout for some players in the squad. Nagelsmann is adamant about keeping tabs on each player, "I believe every player wants to secure a spot for the World Cup qualifiers starting in September."
Rearranging the Deck
Nagelsmann has hinted at tweaking the starting lineup after the disheartening 1:2 defeat against Portugal in the Final Four tournament semi-final. He didn't drop any names, but Pascal Groß, currently with Dortmund, makes a strong contender for a new starter. He paraded in front of the press conference with the muttered promise, "I needn't dig a field by hand to play for Germany. I'm chomping at the bit for a crack at the French!"
Groß: Chomping at the Bit
"To face stars on the field, to wear the German jersey, is still a thrill for me," grossed Groß, his enthusiasm plain to see. "We can reap points for the world rankings. We can claim third place. So, I'm raring to go!"
Nagelsmann rates France highly despite some absences, like top striker Ousmane Dembélé. "France's squad depth is impressive," Nagelsmann growled. "They've got a ruthless performance rate. The only question with them is their flow."
Market Forces: Potential Lineup Shifts
Nagelsmann has suggested a shift in defensive tactics, moving away from a three-at-the-back system to a back four. This change could impact the defenders' lineup, with Robin Koch predicted to retain his spot, while Jonathan Tah will need to show improvement. Other defenders might join the fray due to injuries and recent performances.
Florian Wirtz will likely maintain his crucial role in the team's midfield and attack setup. Other midfielders and attackers could see changes based on form and Nagelsmann's tactical whims. Key players like Jamal Musiala and Antonio Rüdiger will be missed, which could influence Nagelsmann's lineup decisions.
The revised lineup might shape up like this: Marc-André ter Stegen in goal, topped by a back four that could involve Robin Koch, Jonathan Tah, and others. Joshua Kimmich, Leon Goretzka, Florian Wirtz, and others could form the midfield, as could a number of front-liners like Niclas Füllkrug and Leroy Sané.
In short, Nagelsmann sees no reason for complacency. The third-place playoff is not a consolation prize for this German squad. It's an opportunity, a stepping stone to bigger and better things. "So, buckle up," Nagelsmann warned. "We're in this game to win."
"Despite the focus on the upcoming World Cup qualifiers, Nagelsmann acknowledged the importance of the third-place playoff against France, stating, 'Every game for the national team is an opportunity to showcase our abilities and improve our European league ranking.' With a potential lineup shift in mind, particularly in the midfield and attack, Nagelsmann shared his intention to 'consume this game like any other football, striving for victory.' "
"In the face of challenges posed by France, a stringent opponent despite some absences, Pascal Groß expressed his eagerness to play, saying, 'The chance to compete on the field while donning the German jersey is a constant delight, and I'm eager to snatch points from the French for both third place and ranking improvements.' With his enthusiasm palpable, Groß confirmed his readiness to 'execute like a seasoned predator on the pitch.'"
