Germany vs. Italy is on tap…
Former Bayern Munich coach and current German national team boss Julian Nagelsmann is a student of the game and someone who respects history.
That said, Nagelsmann has no interest in re-living Italy’s win over Germany at Westfalenstadion back in 2006.
“I remember 2006. I’m still not happy that Germany didn’t win. But for me, it’s more important to talk about the present and not the past. We want to write our own history. I’m not afraid. We’re in good form, we’re alert. We have good solutions for tomorrow, and then it will be important to create chances and be a bit more focused in our structure. I hope we win the game,” said Nagelsmann (as captured by @iMiaSanMia). “We’ll start at 0-0 and try to win the game. I expect a similar game to the first leg. I expect we’ll see many of the things we saw in Milan tomorrow in Dortmund.”
One of the primary factors in ensuring his team has the best chance to win the game is Nagelsmann selecting the right starting XI. The coach did not give too many hints on his lineup, but did address a couple of players when asked about them.
“Leon Goretzka played a very good game in Milan, both defensively and going forward. He will start again tomorrow. We haven’t decided on all positions yet. That also applies to Leroy (Sané ),” said Nagelsmann.
One position to watch is left-back, where Nagelsmann could elect to use Borussia Dortmund star Nico Schlotterbeck. Schlotterbeck, of course, can play as a center-back or left-back, which is something Nagelsmann values.
“We know he can play both. It depends a bit on the tactical plan. I’m not a big fan of complicating things. That’s why it’s good for us to know he can play both. He’s playing on the left with the ball in Dortmund, too. So it’s completely normal for him. He can defend very well, no matter what position he plays,” Nagelsmann stated.
Finally, Nagelsmann gave an update on goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen.
“Marc is on the right track. But if he’s not fit, the battle for the number 1 spot will be open for all goalkeepers. But the communication to Marc is that if he’s fit, he’ll be our number 1. For now, we’ll give him some time and then wait and see what time will bring,” Nagelsmann said.
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