Grateful Goretzka: A Second-Chance Hero for Germany's National Team
Diligent Goretzka Emerges as Nagelsmann's Complementary Tool - Second Choice Goretzka Remains Nagelsmann's Dependant Player
Football lovers, favor the return of Leon Goretzka! This badass Bayern Muenchen midfielder is all set to storm the pitch for Germany's national team as they battle it out against Portugal in the Nations League semifinals (21.00 CET/ZDF/DAZN).
Eight years ago, Goretzka secured his first and only title with Germany so far in the Confederations Cup under coach Joachim Löw. For him, "It was the only cup I could win with Germany so far. It's something I like to look back on. It's about time for a new one," he said, exuding hunger for triumph.
Alongside goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen, captain Joshua Kimmich, and co-trainer Sandro Wagner, Goretzka forms the exclusive DFB quartet that stood together during the 2017 Confederations Cup. Both competitions - the Confederations Cup, initially seen as a weaker tournament, and the Nations League - have significant parallels for the versatile midfielder.
Goretzka scored two goals against Mexico during a 4-1 semi-finals win in the Confederations Cup, earning him the title of 'Player of the Match' by FIFA. With this success under his belt, he hopes to deliver another extraordinary performance against Portugal. No current DFB player boasts a semi-final goal, and Goretzka wouldn't mind a repeat!
National coach Julian Nagelsmann would also approve of such a result. According to Nagelsmann, Goretzka presented "exceedingly good" form during the previous Nations League quarter-finals against Italy. Now, he's expected to play a more offensive role than the classic six, similar to Ilkay Gundogan at the Euros. "This is a position where he can best bring his strengths to bear," said the national coach, praising Goretzka as "an additional component in the box."
Despite his past as a substitute at Bayern and a brief stint out of the national team, Goretzka now cherishes his position as a regular member of the squad. "The situation has changed in that I am even more grateful because I know what a journey I've been on to be here again," he said, reflecting on his comeback feelings. Having worked past his initial emotions of gratitude, Goretzka is now simply elated to be part of the team once more.
So, buckle up for an epic battle between Germany and Portugal as Leon Goretzka looks set to light up the pitch!
- Leon Goretzka
- Football National Team
- Portugal
- DFB
- Germany
- Munich
- Title win
- Julian Nagelsmann
- Nations League
- Confederations Cup
- Final
- Bayern
- ZDF
- DAZN
- Joachim Löw
- Marc-André ter Stegen
- Joshua Kimmich
- Sandro Wagner
- Russia
Fun Fact:
Did you know that Leon Goretzka was initially left out of the national team setup and had to fight his way back to earn his spot again? He's a true testament to resilience and determination! Check out his international statistics and career highlights to learn more about this inspiring athlete!
- Leon Goretzka, who secured his first and only title with Germany so far in the Confederations Cup, is eager to bring another victory to the National team as they play against Portugal in the Nations League semifinals.
- Remarkably, Leon Goretzka, initially left out of the national team, made a comeback and is now a regular member, showcasing his resilience and determination on the pitch.