Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann has made significant changes to the squad ahead of the upcoming European Championship, calling up six new players for warm-up matches against France and the Netherlands.
Among the additions is the return of 34-year-old Toni Kroos, who comes out of international retirement after nearly three years. Nagelsmann expressed his delight at convincing Kroos to rejoin the team, emphasizing the midfielder’s importance for Germany’s campaign.
Additionally, Bayern Munich’s Aleksandar Pavlović receives his first call-up, opting to represent Germany over Serbia. The inclusion of debutants Waldemar Anton, Maximilian Mittelstädt, and Deniz Undav from Stuttgart reflects the team’s ongoing efforts to rejuvenate its lineup.
Hoffenheim forward Maximilian Beier and Heidenheim’s Jan-Niklas Beste complete the new faces, having impressed in the Bundesliga.
Nagelsmann’s initiative to revitalize the squad follows Germany’s disappointing performances in recent tournaments under previous coaches. Since their early exit from the 2018 World Cup, the team has struggled, experiencing setbacks in Euro 2020 and the 2022 World Cup.
Ahead of the upcoming matches against France and the Netherlands, Leroy Sané is suspended, while Germany unveils its new Euro 2024 jerseys. Nagelsmann expressed satisfaction with the attention the new design has garnered, signaling a fresh start for the team.
Returning players such as Manuel Neuer, Jamal Musiala, and Chris Führich, along with new faces, aim to bolster Germany’s prospects for success in the Euros, which the country will host from June 14 to July 14.
