Bastian Schweinsteiger: A German Footballer's Journey. - "I'd still cherish the opportunity to play"
In 2014, Bastian Schweinsteiger (now 39) had a remarkable performance in the World Cup final against Argentina, helping the German national team achieve their biggest triumph in recent times. In 2006, he had been part of the team playing in Germany's home country. Now, Schweinsteiger will be providing expert commentary on the matches of his former team at the upcoming European Championship hosted in Germany.
In a chat with news agency spot on news, Schweinsteiger expressed his desire to step onto the field instead of just observing the games. He also shared his bond with Esther Sedlaczek (38), his co-host, and explained why Germany isn't one of the favorites to claim the European Championship title.
Bastian, you've played in a World Cup in your own country. What's the deal with the current squad?
Schweinsteiger: There's the advantage of playing at home, feeling the support even before the games. We hope to win the first match against Scotland, which could create a big wave of excitement in the country. Just like we did in 2006 with a 4:2 win against Costa Rica and continued on that momentum.
How are you feeling about the European Championship?
Schweinsteiger: Personally, I'm quite excited. I wish I could be on the field, but having the opportunity to represent my country in a major home tournament is a dream come true. Fortunately, I got to experience it in 2006.
Can you relive the excitement of 2006 for the upcoming Championship?
Schweinsteiger: The chance is certainly there, but it's about turning it into reality. It mainly depends on how well the national team performs. Winning the title isn't a necessity: what matters is the way we play football. We need to win the hearts of German football fans with our style of play.
You've teamed up with Esther Sedlaczek as co-hosts on TV. What's so special about the Schweinsteiger-Sedlaczek duo?
Schweinsteiger: We've known each other for a while, even back when I was still a player. Maybe there's a hint of that in our interactions. But it's not just with Esther that I have a blast, but also with Alex (Alexander Bommes).
Which team do you think will win the European Championship in 2024?
Schweinsteiger: France has the strongest team, but England is also a squad that could go far. The team with the most potential for a surprise is Austria, though they've suffered injuries to David Alaba and Xaver Schlager.
Why didn't you bring up Germany?
Schweinsteiger: Looking back at the history of this competition, we're not entering as one of the favorites to win the title. Our recent friendly matches have given us a lot of hope, however. Defense will be crucial.
What was your favorite moment from the European Championships as a player?
Schweinsteiger: My first European Championship was in 2004, where I came in as a sub against the Netherlands. It just hit me - this happened 20 years ago. Otherwise, the 2008 tournament, where we lost the final to Spain, is still haunting me. That bothers me.
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Bastian Schweinsteiger mentioned his desire to play in the upcoming European Championship hosted in Germany, despite being part of the DFB squad's expert commentary team. He highlighted the significance of playing at home and the excitement of representing his country in a major tournament. Schweinsteiger expressed his admiration for the current squad's potential, especially in their first match against Scotland.
In a chat with spot on news, Schweinsteiger shared his experiences from the 2006 World Cup finale and the 2004 European Championship, where he came in as a substitute against the Netherlands. He also mentioned that Germany isn't among the favorites to win the European Championship title, citing recent friendly matches and the emphasis on defense.
As a co-host on ARD, Schweinsteiger teamed up with Esther Sedlaczek, whom he has known for years, and praised their camaraderie with fellow analyst Alexander Bommes. He also discussed his hope to relive the excitement of 2006 but acknowledged that victory depends on the team's performance during the Championship.
Schweinsteiger also named France and England as strong contenders for the title and suggested that Austria, despite injury setbacks, could spring a surprise. He also touched upon his dislike for losing the 2008 European Championships final to Spain, a moment that still haunts him.
Discussing the German squad, Schweinsteiger emphasized the need for support and momentum from fans, referencing their 4:2 win against Costa Rica during the 2006 World Cup. He highlighted the advantages of playing at home, reminding fans of the excitement that can be created during the tournament.
