Germany head coach Julian Nagelsmann insists that his side “will face up to the task” of competing to win Euro 2024 on home soil.
Germany head coach Julian Nagelsmann has insisted that his side “will face up to the task” of competing to win this summer’s European Championship on home soil.
DFB-Team will enter Euro 2024 in strong form, having won three of their last four matches, including a 2-1 success over Greece in their final warm-up fixture on Friday night.
Germany were knocked out in the round of 16 at Euro 2020 before going out in the group stage of the 2022 World Cup, but the national side are being tipped as potential challengers for this summer’s trophy.
Nagelsmann has said that his team will deal with the pressure of being tournament hosts, as the country go in search of their fourth European Championship crown.
Germany will play in Group A at the competition, opening up against Scotland on June 14 before also tackling Hungary and Switzerland for a spot in the knockout round.
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There will be pressure on Germany to perform
“The normal ambition: we want to win it. It’s the same in all other tournaments. It’s probably not best for us to make this big claim that we’re going to become European champions,” Nagelsmann told UEFA’s official website.
“I think it’s the same for every country that participates, otherwise they wouldn’t put in the work to qualify. Every team that gets into the tournament has the idea of winning it.
“And of course, we also have the idea of winning it. If we give it our all, it can happen. Lots of things have to come together, as is the case for all teams. It’s not a sure thing for any team.
“There is already the expectation that we will do better than we have in recent years, and our fans are excited to have the tournament on home soil.
“We will face up to the task. It is a huge task, it will be challenging, and it’s certainly not a chance that comes around very often. It’s only the second time Germany has hosted a European Championship.
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Germany are going in search of a fourth European Championship title
“For the players, and for myself as a manager, to take part in a tournament on home soil is a unique opportunity. There is pressure involved, but more so joy. If we can see that joy on the pitch, then we will have a great tournament.
“It’s always a great opportunity on a national-team level to put aside the animosity, which of course exists within Germany between clubs too, and for everyone to support Germany.
“Of course, the fans of the other participating teams should take part too, have fun and enjoy their stay in Germany, and turn the streets into big peaceful party zones, where European teams can celebrate football together and hopefully watch lots of good games.”
Having qualified for Euro 2024 as hosts, Germany have not been in competitive action since recording a 4-2 victory over Costa Rica in their final group game at the 2022 World Cup.
Since then, the national side have played 15 friendlies, boasting a record of six wins, three draws and six defeats.