Footbal - Opposing the noise: Neuer's return as a European Championship indicator
Again, Julian Nagelsmann shifted his focus away from football matters. The public survey about migration in the national team was a topic he couldn't ignore before the significant UEFA Nations League clash against Ukraine on Monday (8:45 pm) in Nuremberg. With a heavy heart, he expressed his thoughts during a training session in Herzogenaurach. "I can't believe I have to read something that terrible from a lousy survey," Nagelsmann said on Sunday at the training camp.
He was shocked by the questions posed in the infamous survey by WDR's "Sport Inside" program, which implied that every fifth German desired more white players on the national team. Nagelsmann deemed it racist. "I see it the same way. We need to understand that there are countless people seeking refuge in our country," he added, making the event's importance known. "This EM is for everyone in the nation."
Manuel Neuer, too, would avoid any controversy surrounding the immoral survey ahead of his eagerly awaited return to the national team. If Neuer dons the glove between the DFB goalposts for the first time since Germany's shocking World Cup elimination against Costa Rica, he would only focus on the game at hand. His teammates, including Joshua Kimmich, had already shared their outrage regarding the racist comments on Saturday.
550 days after his last match
When Neuer last defended the DFB goal 550 days ago, it was a disastrous situation, both on and off the pitch. Displaying a sense of unity, Germany's number one had been the target for criticism due to the controversial headscarf debate in Qatar, despite the 65% majority who did not see skin color or religion as a barrier.
"We're surprised by the results, but it's also a reflection of how things are in Germany now," said WDR head of sports Karl Valks. The survey was commissioned to provide relevant data, as the film crew had encountered alarming racist sentiments during the making of a documentary titled "Unity and Justice and Diversity."
At stake was Neuer's career, with a severe leg fracture following his ski accident after the World Cup. "It's remarkable what he's managed to achieve. It's not just that he's back, but his bitterness, determination, and experience will only add to our team's strength," noted Kimmich. Nagelsmann was equally impressed. "He'll be our number one. He's in good condition and has prepared well," he stated confidently.
Neuer's enthusiasm was undimmed. "I'm thrilled for the upcoming games. I'm optimistic and can't wait to see what happens. These two friendlies will be essential for us – it's the last check before the first game," he said with passion.
Major changes ahead
Nagelsmann's squad is approaching strength with ample options to choose from as he seeks stability in his lineup. The lineup will differ significantly from the March qualifiers against Ukraine. "We're attempting to maintain balance in our team," Nagelsmann explained.
Having played instead of Marc-André ter Stegen, Waldemar Anton will partner Kimmich and Niklas Süle in the defense, while Pascal Groß is Nagelsmann's pick for Antonio Rüdiger's place in midfield. "We're determined to keep winning," said Groß.
The "royal four" quartet would arrive later, and Nagelsmann hoped that political tension would have subsided by then. History suggests that such issues were resolved prior to the UEFA Euro 2016 and the World Cup 2018. Back then, Alexander Gauland, an ex-politician for the far-right party AfD, was criticized and ridiculed for exclusionary comments against Jerome Boateng.
Inclusivity and sports
The two highly anticipated friendlies held precedence over all else, with Nagelsmann determined to maintain a positive approach and remain unfazed by controversies. "This EURO is for everyone, regardless of background," Nagelsmann emphasized.
Aware that his personnel decisions could potentially spark controversy, Nagelsmann took a decisive approach. "I know there could be a debate about my choices. But I'm focused on building a strong and stable team," he remarked. "Winning is our goal, and we'll achieve it together."
Not only was Neuer reborn after a potentially career-ending injury, but his comeback heralded reuniting with his national teammates. A more diverse lineup representing Germany would send a strong message of unity and a unified front against xenophobia. "I'm proud to be a part of a team that celebrates diversity and promotes togetherness," Neuer said in an emotionally charged statement, echoing the spirit of the entire soccer community.
In the face of disheartening controversies, German soccer did not bow down. With Neuer once more at the helm, the team confidently marched forward with Nagelsmann at the helm and a united front against haters. The UEFA Nations League would be another opportunity to set the record straight and show the world a unified, inclusive, and stronger Germany.
"We play for all the people of this country," Nagelsmann concluded resolutely, emphasizing the inclusiveness of the team. "Together, we can make meaningful changes and inspire others."
Two years down the line, snaps of Mesut Özil and DFB's current captain, Ilkay Gündogan, standing side by side with the Turkish state president, Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, started a frenzied argument over the allegiance of those with immigrant roots. The uproar went beyond the social realm, escalating to a national level and being perceived as one contributing factor to the early exit at the World Cup in Russia.
