National squad - Stuttgart's goalkeeper Nübel not selected for the European Championship by Nagelsmann.
German goalkeeper Alexander Nübel won't be joining the national football team for the upcoming European Championship. The 27-year-old, who's playing for VfB Stuttgart, was cut from the final 26-member group.
National coach Julian Nagelsmann spoke before the kick-off of the last EM test match against Greece in Mönchengladbach on RTL about his decision. While he commended Nübel's performance, he mentioned "uncertainties" surrounding Leroy Sané, a winger from Bayern Munich. The coach opted for an additional field player over a fourth goalkeeper in the team.
Nübel's removal was unexpected. Nagelsmann had previously stated during the presentation of his 27-player provisional squad on May 16 that he would bring four goalkeepers to the tournament for training purposes. Consequently, Nübel, who hadn't yet represented his country, was included despite his impressive showings for Bundesliga runner-up VfB Stuttgart. The goalie expressed his astonishment at being picked for the team and had to cancel his safari vacation plans.
The roster now comprises 23 field players and 3 goalkeepers, as is customary for past tournaments. Bayern Munich's Manuel Neuer remains the starting goalkeeper, with Marc-André ter Stegen (FC Barcelona) and Oliver Baumann (TSG Hoffenheim) as backups.
Stuttgart's sports director, Fabian Wohlgemuth, assured that Nübel, although omitted, was not viewed as lacking in quality. "Alex' turn in the national team will come," Wohlgemuth firmly stated.
Beier and Koch secure their spots in the EM squad
Maximilian Beier, an offensive player from Hoffenheim, and defender Robin Koch from Eintracht Frankfurt were rumored to be at risk of being eliminated. However, despite Nagelsmann's previous assurance that no one would be removed based on his performance in the camp, he announced that he had made a decision. He intended to inform the affected player once the match against Greece was done and then disclose the final squad.
The squad needs to be registered with UEFA by midnight, with only injuries allowing for changes until the match against Scotland on June 14. Moreover, goalkeepers can be replaced during the tournament if a UEFA doctor certifies an injury.
