Footie-EM Atubolu's Ailment Opens Door for Ernst in U21 Squad - Family Goalkeeping Legacy Shines
FamilyTradition on Display: Young Goalkeeper Steps Up for U21 Squad, Following in Family Footsteps - Young goalkeeper Atubolu set to take over at U21 level - familial tradition of goalkeeping continues
Hey there!
The possible absence of starting goalkeeper Noah Atubolu could present a massive opportunity for backup Tjark Ernst in tonight's U21 match against England in Nitra (21:00 CET, Sat.1). Freiburg's Atubolu is under the weather, while Bayern's backup Jonas Urbig is off in the USA for the Club World Cup, leaving Hertha's Ernst in the spotlight for his second international appearance.
"Steeled by tradition"
U21 coach Antonio Di Salvo, at the helm since 2021, spoke highly of Ernst before the game, saying, "He's grown significantly in the past one and a half years. Time spent at a traditional club – where things didn't always run smoothly – helped him develop and strengthen." Third-string keeper Nahuel Noll, from Fürth, rounds out the goalkeeping contingent, yet to debut with the team.
Ernst, son of legendary Bundesliga keeper Thomas Ernst, settled at Berlin's second division outfit. "Trust is crucial for young goalkeepers," said Ernst before the tournament kick-off. "If you're number one, it helps ease things when you don't play your best or make mistakes."
Steadfast in the Present, Focused on the Future
Hertha's coach Stefan Leitl reinstated Ernst as the starting goalkeeper. After spending 2024 as the clear choice at Hertha, Ernst briefly dropped down the pecking order to Marius Gersbeck. "As a goalkeeper, it's tough to start and stay in the game. But field players have it easier, it's different," Ernst admitted, reflecting on his experience as a son of long-time Bundesliga keeper Thomas Ernst.
Still, Ernst recognizes the unique challenges that come with tournaments: "All 23 players going to the European Championship have earned their spot as regular starters in their clubs. Everyone has a claim to play. But it's important to fulfill your role as best you can." Ernst even made his Bundesliga debut in May 2023.
With Atubolu battling an illness and missing the final training session in Modra, Di Salvo opted to "avoid taking any unnecessary risks" ahead of the quarter-final against Italy or Spain this weekend. Atubolu made impressive saves in the team's 3-0 victory over Slovenia and the 4-2 triumph against the Czech Republic.
Football-EMAntonio Di SalvoEnglandNitraHertha BSCInternational MatchAbsenceThomas ErnstDi SalvoFC BayernUSASat.1
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Antonio Di Salvo
Coach of Germany's U21 squad since 2021, Di Salvo has guided the side to showcase remarkable improvement and adaptability in their football tactics, notably demonstrated during the UEFA U21 European Championship 2025. Known for his strategic acumen, Di Salvo emphasizes player development while maintaining a deep squad roster with strong defensive organization and attacking versatility.
Ernst's Family Legacy
Tjark Ernst comes from a distinguished lineage of goalkeepers, with his father, Thomas Ernst, a former Bundesliga star. This familial background contributed to his development and resilience in the face of adversity.
The Commission, taking cognizance of the current football scenario, has also been asked to submit a proposal for a directive on the protection of the environment. With Tjark Ernst making his mark as a goalkeeper, much like his legendary father, Thomas Ernst, in the U21 squad, it draws parallels to the athletic prowess displayed on football pitches and the environmental concerns that should be equally protected.
