Uli Hoeneß’s public criticism of Julian Nagelsmann continues to provoke debate. Now, for the first time, the national coach has responded in detail to the Bayern patron’s statements – and attempted to strike a conciliatory tone
In the ZDF sports studio, Nagelsmann made it clear that he does not take offense at Hoeneß’s criticism. „I’m really very, very rarely offended,“ explained the national coach
He continued: „Uli can always say something to me, I have great respect for his life’s work.“
However, the 38-year-old did not want to let the honorary president’s statements stand completely. Nagelsmann countered Hoeneß‘ criticism of the frequent changes in the national team in particular with a clear argument. „There were many situations,“ explained the DFB coach
He cited Aleksandar Pavlovic as an example: „I think Aleks Pavlovic played from the start in September. He was injured in October,“ said Nagelsmann
He then added with a slight dig at Hoeneß: „I don’t know if Uli would have been thrilled if I had said: ‚Come on Pavlo, the injury doesn’t matter, you still have to play in October‘.“
Hoeneß had publicly criticized Nagelsmann
The Bayern patron had recently criticized his former coach on several occasions. Hoeneß was particularly annoyed by the lack of continuity in the national team. „The German team has never played with the same team twice in a row,“ the 74-year-old criticized
Hoeneß also publicly questioned whether Nagelsmann was sufficiently self-critical. „He lacks a bit of this willingness to listen and accept,“ Hoeneß explained on DAZN
Nagelsmann seeks conciliatory tones
Nevertheless, the national coach made a visible effort to de-escalate the situation. „I hold Uli in extremely high regard,“ emphasized Nagelsmann. At the same time, he made it clear that Hoeneß could approach him directly at any time. „I know that he also has my cell phone number,“ said the national coach with a grin
He continued: „I’m always happy when he has a compelling topic, sees potential for improvement in our team and tells me about it.“
However, it is also clear that the discussions surrounding Nagelsmann and the national team are now likely to become even more intense in view of the upcoming World Cup.