Julian Nagelsmann remains tight-lipped on striker debate and fitness of key player ahead of knockout tie

Germany boss Julian Nagelsmann gave a complimentary assessment of Denmark, while remaining tight-lipped on the team news ahead of their all important knockout tie against the Danes tomorrow evening. 

Die Mannschaft will have hopes of righting the wrongs of Euro 2020 when they exited the tournament in the round of 16 at the hands of England. 

However, this new-look DFB could not be further from Hansi Flick’s stagnating side that fell short against the three lions and departed with a whimper. 

So far, the hosts have been one of the most impressive teams at the Euros. 

Nagelsmann’s side inflicted Scotland’s heaviest defeat at a European Championships, breezed past a Hungary side that went 14 matches unbeaten, and came from behind versus Switzerland to top the group. 

The 36-year-old mentioned it previously, but this is a German team that is maturing, it is important to pay attention to the manner of the victories because only then will you realise that their success has not been a matter of luck.

This is the eleventh time DFB will be competing in the knockout stages of the Euros, it is their fifth consecutive appearance in the last 16. 

Speaking to the media, the German boss was not giving too much away. 

There has been plenty of speculation heading into the knockout tie regarding who will lead the line for Germany. Sky reporter Florian Plettenberg broke the news this morning that Fullkrug is very likely to start against Denmark tomorrow. 

On the discussion, Nagelsmann said: “I didn’t follow the discussion and didn’t read anything. I won’t reveal anything now. My coaching staff and I have enough expertise to make the right decision without following any discussions.”

Nagelsmann on Füllkrug: “His role is big because he scores goals. It’s not always just about who starts. It’s also about the alternatives. He can start, but he can also bring energy from the bench. I’ve made my decision, but I’m not going to tell you now.”

Antonio Rudiger is suffering from a hamstring injury aggravated in the 1-1 draw with Switzerland.

It has been reported by various outlets the centre-back has been playing through the pain barrier of a persistent leg injury throughout the Euros. 

Sky Germany claim that he is a doubt for the last 16 clash; however, Nagelsmann remains optimistic.

“Things looked good in training today. We have to wait and see what happens overnight. If nothing happens, he can play tomorrow. He’s very important for us.”

Denmark will be “tough” opponents 

Denmark finished second in Group C, two points behind favourites England. Despite flattering to deceive somewhat in the group stages, Nagelsmann is aware of the challenge the Danes will pose.

“They’re a well-organised team that can vary between very high pressing, a high level of physical strength and also deep defending.

“They have phases in the game where they defend very aggressively and have a lot of one-touch extensions into the final third. Overall they have good physicality and a clear structure. They will be a tough opponent,” he said.

The German boss on being the host nation

Nagelsmann addressed whether being the host nation is an advantage or in fact extra pressure. 

The 36-year-old said: “Regardless of whether we’re the host nation or not, the expectations of our fans will always be the same.

“Our fans support us and celebrate the games. When we see the pictures from the streets, it gives us an extra push”

The path to the final

After Georgia’s stunned Portugal, beating a Seleção das Quinas 2-0, and Cenk Tosin’s 94 minute winner secured victory for Turkiye over Czechia on Wednesday evening, the path to the final was decided. 

While Nagelsmann admits Germany’s side of the draw is perhaps more difficult than the other side, the former Bayern Munich manager insisted some of the lesser nations were better than the favourites in the group stages. 

“I think on paper the other bracket looks a bit easier. But there are teams in the other bracket that played better than some of the favourites,” said the Germany boss.

“I last met him at the workshop in Düsseldorf. He is a brilliant coach. As a person he’s super polite, I spoke to him about football. I’m looking forward to seeing him tomorrow. I wish him good luck, but I want to win tomorrow,” said the Euros youngest manager.

Nagelsmann is in favour of a 24 team Euros

The first Euros with 24 teams was in 2016 and won by Portugal, who won after scraping through to the knockouts as one of the best third-placed teams.

Given that Ukraine failed to qualify for the last 16 despite finishing on four points, the make-up of the competition has received criticism. 

Nagelsmann on whether the Euros should go back to the old format with 16 teams: “I don’t think so. It’s important for smaller countries to take part in such a big tournament.

“It’s always interesting. One example is Georgia, they are getting better with every game, it’s incredible. It’s a special tournament and good as it is.”

Robert Andrich insists Germany are “well prepared” 

Robert Andrich featured in all three group stage matches. His partnership with Toni Kroos at the heart of Die Mannschaft is pivotal to the way DFB want to play under Nagelsmann. 

On tomorrow’s game, Andrich said: “We are very well prepared for tomorrow. We have looked at Denmark and know that they play with a back five.

“We want to be variable. It will be a good mix to make sure we can get our attacking players into dangerous areas. If we do that we can be dangerous to any opponent.

“You can see that the team has a certain amount of self-confidence. We want to continue, stay hungry and get to the next round. It won’t be easy, but I’m confident that we’ll go through.”