Nagelsmann Battles Germany’s Identity Debate as Euro Host Heads to the World Cup

Julian Nagelsmann, coach of Germany’s national team during Euro 2024, harshly condemned a TV poll answered by 1,304 people that asked whether fans would prefer to see more white players in the national side. Twenty-one percent said yes. Nagelsmann said he was “shocked” that such questions were asked and answered, calling the poll “racist” and saying, “We have to wake up.” He backed captain Joshua Kimmich, who had called the survey “madness.”

Nagelsmann argued that the team should reflect how people from different cultural, religious and ethnic backgrounds can work together, and that football can serve as a model for social integration. He said it was strange that people travel abroad to experience other cultures but complain when those cultures come to Germany. “We play for everyone in the country,” he said, adding that anyone who can perform at the highest level is welcome in the squad.

The comments come after a turbulent period for German football and politics. Germany was eliminated by Spain in the Euro 2024 quarterfinals, and after that defeat Nagelsmann delivered what was described at home as a highly presidential speech about community, solidarity and integration. Since then, Germany’s far-right AfD has gained more power, and Adidas had to block custom Germany shirts with the number 44 because of its visual resemblance to an SS symbol used in Nazi Germany.

Nagelsmann now heads into the World Cup amid doubts about both his political message and his coaching decisions, including Manuel Neuer’s dramatic return to the squad, public criticism of players and hesitation during qualifying. According to a ZDF survey, only 15% of Germans believe the team can win the title in the United States, Mexico and Canada. Nagelsmann said he was not sure it was his job to create euphoria, only to create the moments that lead to it.