In September, Hansi Flick became the first Germany manager to be sacked since the role was created in 1926. The looming Euro 2024 tournament was a daunting prospect at that point but the mood has changed under Julian Nagelsmann. With a mix of youth and experience, bolstered by some promising results in the build-up, there is not only belief again that the hosts can enjoy themselves at their own party but a feeling that the timing could be just right for this team.
It is in sharp contrast to the emotions one summer ago when Germany lost back-to-back games against Poland and Colombia, the latter on home turf in Gelsenkirchen. A shocking 4-1 defeat to Japan on an autumn evening in Wolfsburg finally did for Flick. The turnaround since has been, as the saying goes, both sudden and gradual.
In the immediate aftermath of Flick's exit, there was a confidence-boosting win over France. But it is since the appointment of Nagelsmann that progress has really taken shape. That was evident in March when France were beaten again - this time in Lyon - before a come-from-behind victory over the Netherlands underlined the improving form.
Now, that home advantage this summer looks like a gift rather than a curse. "It is a huge opportunity for Germany," Jurgen Klinsmann tells Sky Sports . "If they do well at the Euros, getting their fans behind them, creating a very special spirit in the country from hosting this competition, it could turn out in a wonderful story.
" Klinsmann knows from his own e.
