The DFB squad is ready to depart, full of energy.
In about two weeks from now, the grand moment arrives: The German football team will take part in the inaugural match of the local European Championship. After several laid-back days at the training camp in Thuringia, it's now time to head to the tournament headquarters at Herzogenaurach, Adidas' headquarters.
Julian Nagelsmann observed Manuel Neuer's parades and Ilkay Gündoğan's passes one final time - then it was time to pack their bags. With the last session at the Lindenstadion in Blankenhain by train, the national team would make their way to the EM headquarters in Herzogenaurach, a journey of more than 200 kilometers to the south. Previously, Nagelsmann had been extremely pleased with the time they spent in the Weimar Land.
"During our stay at the training camp, we had terrific facilities. Although a few players couldn't attend the entire period due to the DFB Cup finals and the Champions League, we used these days effectively and became a solid team," shared the 36-year-old coach.
Now, the stakes are higher. In Weimar Land, the players had plenty to distract them, including meetings with the federal president and a visit to the special operations command of the police. On Monday at 8:45 p.m. (ARD) and live on ntv.de, there's already the first of just two chances to practice before the tournament against Scotland (June 14th) in Munich.
"We've felt the excitement of the locals for their team," Nagelsmann said with satisfaction, and predicted, "This fantastic support from the fans will travel with us to the tournament."
Within the swift 90-minute train ride, the German national team was feeling upbeat and euphoric. The camaraderie they found in the Weimar Land is promising. "We've felt the excitement of the locals for their team," Nagelsmann said with satisfaction, adding, "This incredible fan support will fuel us for the tournament."
Their last training was also ideal. To commemorate Mainz U21's Brajan Gruda on his 20th birthday, the national players delivered a birthday greeting. "The mood is amazing," said Kai Havertz, "and we hope to maintain the energy in the 'Adidas Headquarters'."
For Saturday afternoon, Nagelsmann already scheduled the first practice on the newly built grass field - which will be a demanding test. From Sunday through Monday in Herzogenaurach, heavy rainfall is expected.
To prevent camp boredom, the DFB team has several options at their "Base Camp". They can play pool, tennis, basketball, or darts. On the central plaza in the camp, the athletes will watch the Champions League final featuring four of their own on Saturday. Nagelsmann will also watch, keeping a keen eye.
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As Julian Nagelsmann and the German national soccer team board their train to Herzogenaurach, they are filled with excitement and camaraderie, looking forward to their time at the European Football Championship 2024 headquarters. With their last training session behind them, Nagelsmann is confident that the team's bond forged in Weimar Land will fuel their performance in the tournament.
Following their arrival at the "Adidas Headquarters," Nagelsmann has planned several activities for the team to prevent camp boredom, including watching the Champions League final on the central plaza. Meanwhile, he will keep a keen eye on four of his own players featuring in the final.
Julian Nagelsmann, Soccer, European Football Championship 2024, National soccer team
