Last Thursday, Julian Nagelsmann presented his squad for the upcoming DFB test matches. The biggest surprise was probably that Leon Goretzka, who has been in strong form of late, was not named for the clashes against France and the Netherlands. After the 5:2 win against Darmstadt 98, his team-mates expressed their surprise at the national coach’s decision.
After the German record champions‘ away win at Darmstadt 98, two of Bayern’s key players commented on the defensive midfielder’s surprising omission in an interview with Sky. Captain Manuel Neuer explained: „Anyone who knows Leon knows how ambitious he is. I was surprised at first, but these are things that the coaching team decide.“
The 28-year-old’s surprise could result in particular from Goretzka’s rising form curve. The ex-Bochum man has recently been one of Bayern’s best players on the pitch.
Youngster Jamal Musiala also expressed his surprise at Julian Nagelsmann’s decision not to nominate Goretzka: „Leon has been playing very well recently. It’s a shame for him, but I know he’ll work very hard to hopefully make the European Championship squad. We have a lot of quality at the DFB, sometimes other players are in better form and then you lose your place. Then you can’t let yourself fall and you have to keep working hard so that you’re there next time.“
„He was angry at first, that’s clear“
Bayern coach Thomas Tuchel also addressed the issue of his dismissal at the recent press conference. „He was angry and disappointed at first, that’s clear. He’s ambitious and really wanted to be there. But then he trained very well and I’m confident that he’ll have a good game. Leon Goretzka has been very strong with us recently and I hope he can keep it up,“ said the 50-year-old.
Nagelsmann instead favoured team-mate Aleksandar Pavlovic. The youngster, who is now a regular in Tuchel’s squad, also received an enquiry from the Serbian FA, but has now opted for the DFB.
