Germany head coach Julian Nagelsmann discussed his squad selection, tactical adjustments, and expectations ahead of Die Mannschaft’s UEFA Nations League quarterfinal against Italy at San Siro.
🔑 Key Takeaways from Nagelsmann’s Press Conference
📌 Leon Goretzka’s Resurgence in Midfield
Bayern Munich’s Leon Goretzka, once considered an afterthought, has now played his way back into Germany’s plans.
🗣 Nagelsmann on Goretzka:
“Performance is the decisive factor. Since Vincent Kompany arrived, Leon has regained his value at Bayern. He’s an experienced Bundesliga player and has earned his place in the squad.”
DORTMUND, GERMANY – MARCH 18: Head coach Julian Nagelsmann gives instructions to his players during a Germany training session at Borussia Dortmund training ground on March 18, 2025 in Dortmund, Germany. (Photo by Lars Baron/Getty Images)
The midfield depth includes: ✅ Joshua Kimmich (playing at right-back) ✅ Angelo Stiller (in good form) ✅ Pascal Groß (returning to top form) ✅ Aleksandar Pavlović (missing due to injury)
📌 Joshua Kimmich to Continue at Right-Back
Despite his preference to play in midfield, Joshua Kimmich will remain Germany’s right-back.
🗣 Nagelsmann:
“We reviewed the EUROs and other matches, and he was the best right-back. For him to move to midfield, we’d need a better option at right-back—and we don’t have one right now.”
Kimmich’s experience and reliability make him the best fit for the position.
DORTMUND, GERMANY – MARCH 18: Head coach Julian Nagelsmann is seen during a Germany training session at Borussia Dortmund training ground on March 18, 2025 in Dortmund, Germany. (Photo by Lars Baron/Getty Images)
📌 Goalkeeper Dilemma: Baumann Over Nübel
Nagelsmann opted for Oliver Baumann over Alexander Nübel as a backup goalkeeper behind Marc-André ter Stegen.
🗣 Nagelsmann:
“It was a close decision. Both are having a strong season, but Oli is more consistent at this level.”
Baumann will compete with Ter Stegen, while Manuel Neuer remains out of the squad.
📌 No Extra Pressure on Jamal Musiala
Julian Nagelsmann looks on during the UEFA Champions League 2024/25 Round of 16 First Leg match between FC Bayern München and Bayer 04 Leverkusen at Allianz Arena on March 5, 2025 in Munich, Germany. (Photo by GSI/Icon Sport via Getty Images)
With Florian Wirtz injured and Kai Havertz not fully fit, many expect Jamal Musiala to take on a bigger attacking role.
🗣 Nagelsmann:
“I’m not giving him more responsibility than usual. He should play like he always does, as the ‘street footballer’ he is.”
Musiala’s dribbling and creativity will be crucial against Italy’s disciplined defense.
🔥 Germany’s UEFA Nations League Quarterfinal vs Italy
📍 Venue: San Siro, Milan 🇮🇹 📅 Date: March 21 ⚔️ Key Battle: Germany’s midfield control vs Italy’s defensive resilience 👥 Expected German Fans: 3,500 traveling supporters
DORTMUND, GERMANY – MARCH 18: Head coach Julian Nagelsmann is seen during a Germany training session at Borussia Dortmund training ground on March 18, 2025 in Dortmund, Germany. (Photo by Lars Baron/Getty Images)
🗣 Nagelsmann on facing Italy:
“It will be a difficult game. We need the right balance between attack and defense—something we’ve struggled with in some games.”
🇩🇪 Can Germany overcome Italy and continue their Nations League journey? 💬 Do you agree with Kimmich staying at right-back? Should Musiala be Germany’s main playmaker?
