INTERNATIONAL FRIENDLY
Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann responds to criticism of USMNT and Mexico friendlies
Germany will host Euro 2024 but haven’t had ideal preparation for the tournament, with Nageslmann replacing the sacked Hansi Flick.
The USMNT are back in action on Saturday as Gregg Berhalter looks to continue momentum after a fine start to his second spell in charge. The Stars and Stripes had few problems in defeating Uzbekistan and Oman in the September international break but will expect to face two much sterner tests in the next 10 days or so.
First up is a clash against Germany, historically one of the most successful nations in international soccer, even if they haven’t had a great time of things recently. The match in East Hartford, Connecticut should give Berhalter a reasonable idea of how his team is shaping up ahead of the 2023-24 CONCACAF Nations League quarter-finals, which take place in November, and even the 2024 Copa América, to be held next summer.
Tuchel and Völler critical of USMNT and Mexico friendlies
The friendly game, however, has drawn plenty of criticism, especially on the German side. Bayern Munich head coach Thomas Tuchel and former national team striker Rüdi Voller are among those who have questioned the wisdom of crossing the Atlantic for games against the United States and Mexico with the domestic season in full swing.
Germany have already landed stateside and will train in Foxborough, Massachusetts before facing the US in East Hartford on Saturday and El Tri in Philadelphia on Tuesday.
Nagelsmann on US trip: “I won’t lie. It’s normal to criticise”
Prior to his team’s arrival, Nagelsmann, who will coach his country until the end of Euro 2024, acknowledged that the trip is not ideal from clubs’ point of view but sees it as an opportunity for Die Mannschaft to continue turning their wretched recent form around. Before a 2-1 friendly victory over France in their last match, the Germans had lost four of their previous five matches, a run which cost predecessor Hansi Flick his job.
“From the point of view of a club coach, it is normal to criticise playing friendlies in the United States. I won’t lie. I would probably say the same thing if I were still managing a club. But we all have a responsibility towards German football. We all have to look at it positively and make the best of it. The players have to give their all and hopefully they all go back to their clubs fit and healthy,” said Nagelsmann.