Nagelsmann Urges Germany to Harness the 'Privilege of Pressure'

Julian Nagelsmann

Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann believes his team must turn the pressure of hosting Euro 2024 into an advantage, as they prepare for the tournament opener against Scotland in Munich on Friday.

Germany, three-time European Championship winners, have struggled since reaching the semi-finals in Euro 2016. The national team has faced early exits in the group stages of the last two World Cups and was eliminated by England in the last 16 of Euro 2021.

Admitting to feeling "a little nervous" ahead of his debut coaching Germany in a major tournament, Nagelsmann emphasized the importance of embracing the pressure in front of home fans. "It's normal to feel some pressure before a tournament and crucial games like these," the 36-year-old told reporters on Thursday.

"For me, the most important theme when I speak with my players is that pressure is a form of privilege. We need to enjoy being on the pitch. Our players started playing football when they were young because they love it. If you approach it that way, you're doing it right."

Nagelsmann underscored the need to manage the pressure and prepare thoroughly for Scotland. While thousands of Scotland supporters are expected in Munich for Friday's game, he stressed the importance of Germany capitalizing on their "home-field advantage" during the tournament. "It's crazy, I come from a village with 700 residents," Nagelsmann joked, noting his hometown had "more cows than people."

"Now we have the opening of the Euros in Munich tomorrow—we're really looking forward to it."

Germany captain Ilkay Gundogan echoed Nagelsmann's sentiments, calling it a "huge privilege" and "incredible honor" to lead the hosts onto the pitch. "It's something that doesn't come around often in your career. To be part of this team, this country, and to represent the German people is an honor."

'Ridiculously Good' Kroos Returns for Germany

Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann detailed the efforts to bring veteran midfielder Toni Kroos out of international retirement for Euro 2024. Kroos, a 2014 World Cup winner, retired from international duty in 2021. Nagelsmann admitted it took time to persuade the midfield maestro to return.

"It took a period of time to convince him because he wanted to know what we'll change in the future," explained Nagelsmann. "He said he'll only be part of the team if he feels we can win, so he wanted to know how we'd change the team. Then he said, 'let's rock'."

Kroos, who retired from club football after winning the Champions League with Real Madrid earlier this month, will hang up his boots for good at the end of the Euros.

Ilkay Gundogan, who will play alongside Kroos in midfield, praised the six-time Champions League winner for his ability to make the difficult look easy. "I know how important and decisive these simple-looking passes can be," said the Barcelona midfielder. "You have to be a ridiculously good footballer to achieve the things he has achieved, so that's why he's so important for us."

Nagelsmann also warned his players not to underestimate Scotland, noting that Steve Clarke's side is no longer the "kick and rush" team of the past. "They have flair and good physicality. They may not be full of superstars, but that can make them dangerous."