German coach Julian Nagelsmann’s statements about Leon Goretzka have caused a lot of discussion in recent days. The DFB coach had given the Bayern midfielder a good chance of making Germany’s 2026 World Cup squad despite his reserve role in Munich. Now, for the first time, Goretzka himself has commented on the much-discussed statements
In an interview with Sky, the 31-year-old made it clear that he does not interpret the words of his former Bayern coach as a guarantee of a nomination. „I certainly don’t see it, as some have already interpreted it, as a free pass,“ Goretzka explained after FC Bayern’s 4-1 home win over Borussia Mönchengladbach
Instead, the midfielder sees the national coach’s statements as an additional incentive: „I simply see it as motivation.“
Nagelsmann had previously emphasized in an interview with kicker that Goretzka has a good chance of playing a role at the 2026 World Cup despite his limited playing time at FC Bayern. The national coach particularly highlighted his heading ability, his presence in the penalty area and his physical strength
„Special connection“ to Nagelsmann
Goretzka also emphasized that he has a special relationship with Nagelsmann, having already worked closely together at FC Bayern. „Julian and I naturally already had a special connection, even at Bayern,“ explained the midfielder
At the same time, he recalled that there had also been more difficult phases between them – particularly around the European Championship
„We also had a difficult time at the European Championships, where we naturally disagreed, but I’m still a little proud that we sorted that out together,“ said Goretzka
The Bayern professional also pointed out that he played an important role in the team during qualifying for the World Cup: „I think I played every game and played my part in getting us to the tournament,“ explained the 31-year-old
For him, it is now crucial to repay the trust of the national team coach in the future. „Of course, you want to repay the trust you’ve been given. I’ll try to do that.“
Position in midfield clearly defined
It is also interesting to note that Goretzka played in exactly the same position in Bayern’s win against Gladbach that Nagelsmann sees him in for the national team – alongside Joshua Kimmich on the double six
The midfielder immediately made his mark there, setting up Luis Díaz’s opening goal with a fine lob
It therefore came as no surprise to Goretzka that Nagelsmann continues to rely on him: „I didn’t actually play much here in the qualifiers either and felt very comfortable in the position. I know exactly what is expected of me,“ he emphasized.