sunlit1688 German national team coach Julian Nagelsmann gave a press conference at the end of the Euro 2024 tournament. The important point is that captain Ilkay Gundogan’s decision on whether to continue or stop is still unknown. As for the successor, Toni Kroos, it will take a long time to be developed. sunlit1688

The ‘Iron Eagles’ drew 1-1 with Spain in 90 minutes, despite creating more scoring opportunities. In the final minutes of extra time, Miguel Merino headed the game to end it 1-2, ending the hosts’ hopes in the quarter-finals.  ( sunlit1688 )

This raises questions about whether Gundogan still has the heart to continue serving his country at the age of 32. Nagelsmann believes that the player needs time to think things through. 

“I haven’t received any signals from him about whether he will continue playing for the national team or stop here,” he said at the Herzogenaurach training camp press conference. 

“He is a leader who doesn’t talk much but is rich in experience.” 

“Of course I would be happy if Ilkay continues to play for the national team, but in the end it is up to the key players to decide their future.”

“For my part, I am happy to have him as our captain. I guess Gundogan will continue to play and be called up for the national team.”

But for someone like Kroos who is definitely saying goodbye, the 36-year-old coach admits it will be difficult to find a worthy replacement anytime soon. 

“It would be difficult to find someone to replace him with the same quality,” the Bundesliga coach said of his two-year-younger player. 

“Like Aleksandar Pavlovic (Bayern Munich) or Angelo Stiller, they are two players who can replace him in a certain position or style of play.” 

“There’s still Pascal Gross, who is 33 years old. In our view, we can probably find a solution.”  

Next up, Germany will play in the UEFA Nations League , where Nagelsmann hopes to make it to the finals to secure a championship that will boost confidence.