GERMANY’S reputation as tournament football’s greatest nation has taken a battering in recent years. At Qatar 2022 the Nationalmannschaft went out at the group stage for the second World Cup in a row, having lost in the last 16 to England at Euro 2020 in between the two. 24 So when Julian Nagelsmann took over last autumn, expectations were at their lowest for some time.
But hosting a big competition brings back happy memories for German fans. They won the 1974 World Cup on home soil, finished third under Jurgen Klinsmann in the game-changing 2006 tournament, and reached the semis of Euro 1988. And there have been recent signs of improvement.
After disappointing friendly defeats by Turkey and Austria in November, Germany beat World Cup runners-up France and Qatar quarter finalists Holland in back-to-back games in March. They were Toni Kroos’ first matches back following his decision to return from three years in international retirement. Kroos, 34, brings experience, quality and grit to a midfield that has lacked all three.
The backline remains a bit of a concern, however, and Germany’s best form of defence may be attack. Their impressive options include Florian Wirtz, fresh from helping Bayer Leverkusen win their first Bundesliga title. Germany play Scotland in the opening game of Euro 2024 on 14 June at Munich's Allianz Arena.
Bright, young boss and a bit of a maverick. Known for his flashy outfits and arriving for training on a skateboard. Nagelsmann, 36, was appoin.