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Ballack: Neuer in goal, Kimmich at right-back

Michael Ballack was captain of the German national team at the 2006 home World Cup. He has two suggestions for national coach Julian Nagelsmann for the 2024 European Championship at home.

Michael Ballack in Cologne. Photo.aussiedlerbote.de
Michael Ballack in Cologne. Photo.aussiedlerbote.de

EM recommendations - Ballack: Neuer in goal, Kimmich at right-back

Michael Ballack (47) has spoken out in favor of Manuel Neuer in goal and Joshua Kimmich at right-back for next year's European Championship. In an interview with the "Süddeutsche Zeitung", the former national team captain said the following about the goalkeeper question: "If both are in top form, Neuer should be in goal. Simply because he radiates so much and also triggers something in his opponents. I don't see the constellation of him going as number two - that wouldn't do ter Stegen justice either. The public would immediately interpret every supposed wobble, which would also be a big risk for the internal relationship."

Bayern Munich's Neuer had not yet returned to the DFB squad for the recent defeats in Berlin against Turkey (2:3) and in Vienna against Austria (0:2). In both games, Frankfurt's Kevin Trapp was in goal because FC Barcelona's ter Stegen was ruled out due to back problems. Neuer is currently impressing with strong performances following his protracted leg fracture.

Ballack also commented on Kimmich before the draw for the groups for the 2024 European Championship at home, who he does not necessarily see in midfield in Julian Nagelsmann's DFB squad. "Kimmich is a super player who creates a game, who always wants the ball. He has a great opening! And he can also work against the ball. But I don't see him as a classic six-man," said the former midfielder, adding: "I think Kimmich is even stronger as a right-back. But: If I don't have another holding six available in Germany, I just have to adjust Kimmich's game accordingly. Then I tell him: We don't have the perfect defensive partner to cover for you - so you have to cover. "

The German national team will play the opening match of the tournament on June 14 in Munich. This will be followed by the group games in Stuttgart (June 19) and in Frankfurt/Main (June 24). The final will be played in Berlin on July 14.

Information on the EURO 2024 on the UEFA website Dates and EURO match schedule Information on the EURO draw on the UEFA website Interview Ballack

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Source: www.stern.de

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