Julian Nagelsmann’s Germany Euro Team is generating considerable buzz as the tournament on home soil approaches. After a period of instability, the return of Toni Kroos and Nagelsmann’s tactical tweaks suggest a winning formula might be emerging. Victories against strong nations like France and the Netherlands have solidified the idea that Germany could be serious contenders for the Euro 2024 title. But how exactly has Nagelsmann shaped this team, and what are their realistic chances?
Nagelsmann’s journey with the national team began with mixed results. His initial matches saw Germany secure a win against the USA and a draw with Mexico, but these were followed by disappointing defeats in November. However, recent dominant performances indicate a significant turnaround, leaving fans optimistic as Euro 2024 draws near. Nagelsmann has already announced his preliminary 27-man squad, a selection heavily influenced by the patterns and formations he’s experimented with during his tenure. The team’s evolution can be viewed in distinct phases, reflecting Nagelsmann’s learning and adaptation.
Nagelsmann’s Early Experiments: Finding the Right Formula
In his first games in charge, a 3-1 victory over the USA and a 2-2 draw against Mexico, Nagelsmann appeared to be in an exploratory phase. He experimented with both 4-2-3-1 and 4-2-2-2 formations, trying different player combinations. Notably, Jonathan Tah and Niklas Süle were deployed in unfamiliar right-back roles, Robin Gosens featured on the left, and Kai Havertz was limited to substitute appearances. These early matches seemed to be about assessing the available talent and understanding the team’s dynamics.
Nagelsmann initially tested a 4-2-3-1 formation in his debut as Germany’s head coach against the USA. – DFL
Nagelsmann, known for his tactical flexibility and innovation, continued to experiment in the subsequent fixtures. Against Turkey, he maintained a 4-2-3-1 setup but made a surprising move by positioning Kai Havertz at left-back. Havertz even scored in that match, but Germany ultimately suffered a 3-2 defeat in Berlin. The experiment deepened in the following 2-0 loss to Austria, where Havertz played as a wing-back in a back-three formation. Leroy Sané’s red card in that game further compounded a night to forget, highlighting the risks of these unconventional tactical approaches.
The decision to play Kai Havertz at left-back in Julian Nagelsmann’s second set of matches raised eyebrows and sparked debate. – DFL
The Turning Point: Stability and a Winning Formation for Germany Euro Team
The defeats seemed to serve as crucial lessons for Nagelsmann. In the crucial friendlies against France and the Netherlands, a clear shift occurred. Nagelsmann opted for consistency, fielding the same starting XI in a 4-2-3-1 formation in both matches. This newfound stability proved highly effective, resulting in impressive victories and a sense of cohesion within the team.
The return of Toni Kroos to the national team setup has been a masterstroke. His experience and composure in midfield have added a new dimension to Germany’s play. Kroos’ impact was immediate; within seven seconds of his return, he provided an assist, setting up Florian Wirtz for Germany’s record-breaking fastest international goal. This moment perfectly illustrated the positive influence Kroos exerts on his teammates.
Robert Andrich’s robust presence alongside Kroos in midfield provides balance and defensive solidity. The central defensive partnership of Jonathan Tah and Antonio Rüdiger further strengthens the team’s backbone. However, the most significant impact of this tactical setup is arguably in the attacking third, where Ilkay Gündoğan, Jamal Musiala, and Florian Wirtz are given the freedom to express their creativity and attacking prowess.
A standard 4-2-3-1 formation allowing Florian Wirtz and Jamal Musiala to thrive proved successful in matches against France and the Netherlands. – DFL
Nagelsmann himself emphasized the importance of this attacking freedom, stating, “The three of them have a lot of freedom that they can enjoy.” Gündoğan echoed this sentiment, highlighting his role in supporting the younger talents: “Jamal and Flo are in top form. I want to support them by providing the necessary balance so they can show their magic.”
The results speak for themselves. Wirtz scored against France, Kroos provided two assists across the two games, and Musiala contributed two assists as well. The attacking trio’s chemistry is undeniable and rapidly developing. “I feel good with Flo on and off the pitch,” Musiala remarked, “The connection between us gets even better with every game.” The experienced leadership of Gündoğan further nurtures this development, allowing Musiala and Wirtz to flourish around him.
Squad Depth and Key Player Roles for Germany at Euro 2024
Germany’s squad is brimming with talent, creating healthy competition for places. Leroy Sané, despite his undeniable quality and Bayern Munich form, faces a challenge to break into the starting lineup. Similarly, Joshua Kimmich, a mainstay for Bayern in midfield, has adapted to a right-back role for the national team.
Nagelsmann addressed Kimmich’s positional change, emphasizing team unity and sacrifice. “With the national team every player has to subordinate himself and be a servant for your country. That’s Kimmich.” Kimmich’s willingness to embrace this role underscores the team-first mentality Nagelsmann is fostering. Nagelsmann affirmed Kimmich’s commitment, stating, “He embodies a lot of what is missing from young players these days: the absolute desire to win… In general, he’s very open.”
Manuel Neuer’s return as the undisputed number one goalkeeper means Marc-André ter Stegen, another world-class talent, will likely play a supporting role. Niclas Füllkrug, despite his impressive international scoring record, seems set to be an impact substitute, with Kai Havertz favored as the central striker. Füllkrug has accepted his role gracefully, stating, “I’ve already scored goals when I come off the bench and can give a team input and energy from this role. A tournament is about having players in a role in which they help the team.”
If everyone remains fit and available, this could be Germany’s starting lineup for their Euro 2024 opener against Scotland in Munich. – DFL
This collective acceptance of roles and responsibilities points towards a strong team spirit within the Germany Euro team. This unity, combined with the tactical improvements and the injection of experienced players like Kroos, makes Germany a compelling prospect for Euro 2024. Nagelsmann’s long-term vision is also evident in the integration of new faces into the squad, providing depth and future-proofing the national team setup. The inclusion of several VfB Stuttgart players and other debutants demonstrates a commitment to building a team for both the present and the future.
Euro 2024 Hopes: Is Glory Beckoning for Germany?
Germany’s recent performances and tactical clarity suggest they are emerging as genuine contenders for Euro 2024. The blend of experienced stars and youthful exuberance, coupled with Nagelsmann’s tactical acumen, creates a potent mix. While the tournament will present its challenges, the Germany Euro team, under Nagelsmann’s guidance, has the potential to achieve significant success on home soil and potentially lift the trophy.
