Opportunity for young professionals
Thomas Müller should no longer play an international match this season. After his expected return, Manuel Neuer must fight for the number one position in the German goal. Shortly before the national team was named for the first test matches after the World Cup disaster, Hansi Flick (58) gave insight into his staff planning ahead of the 2024 European Championship .
« Thomas Müller will not be involved in the next two measures. This has been discussed with him, I would like to give young players a chance in the national team, » Flick said in an interview with « Kicker ». In March and June, Müller will therefore be absent from the squad. The Bayern veteran will return to the DFB circle shortly before his 34th birthday in September at the earliest, provided Flick sees a need for it.
The agreement does not mean “that his career in the DFB is over and that he does not play a role in the European Championship. Why should I close the door on a player like that forever? » Flick said in an interview with the « Süddeutsche Zeitung ». This tournament perspective applies equally to veteran Ilkay Gündogan (32) from Manchester City.
Instead of Müller: Chance for the « brilliant » Havertz – ter Stegen in goal
Captain Neuer also does not receive a free ticket. Still awaiting a comeback after breaking his leg, the Bayern goalkeeper, who will turn 37 at the end of the month, faces competitive pressure. “The focus is on performance. Nothing is set in stone – Manu knows that,” Flick said. However, the national coach assumes Neuer will return. « I’m confident he’ll reach his performance limit when he’s 100% fit again, » Flick said.
Against Peru in Mainz on March 25 and three days later in Cologne against Belgium, Marc-André ter Stegen (30) from FC Barcelona was appointed by Flick as the new representative. Kevin Trapp (32) from Eintracht Frankfurt takes on the role of challenger. Flick will name their team for Friday’s two games.
In Müller’s position in attack, Flick wants to give more responsibility to young players on the way to the European Championship. He explicitly named Kai Havertz (23) from Chelsea. « Kai is a brilliant (Site notre bureau spécialisé)er, very thoughtful and very mature in his personality. Our job is to help these players take the next step and also take on responsibilities within the national team, » Flick said.
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