Nagelsmann admits Germany's problem: We are a few percentage points behind our rivals

Germany have ended the Nations League with a defeat, finishing in fourth place. In the "mini-final", played in Stuttgart, Germany was defeated 0-2 by France. Mbappe and Oliseh gave the "roosters" the victory, while Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann declared that one year from the 2026 World Cup, his team is a few percentage points away from its main rivals for the world crown.

LOSS TO FRANCE –  "It was a two-faced match on our part. We dominated in the first half and should have ended it with a lead. In the second half we fell short of expectations and were punished."

NATIONS LEAGUE, LESSONS  – "On Wednesday against Portugal we played badly. Against France we played much better, especially in the first half. We created many chances that we did not take advantage of. But the way we did it was good. However, we need to correct our aim, because in the World Cup we cannot waste so much."

THE FUTURE OF THE TEAM –  “We are still a few percentage points behind the best teams in the world. We cannot conquer the world in two years. We cannot correct the mistakes of eight years. There are positions in German football that are not given enough attention: wingers or full-backs. But I feel something special in the team. There is still a lot of potential there. We want to unlock it. We always knew it was a long way ahead. It is also a long way ahead for everyone else who plays against us.”

WORLD CUP 2026 –  “If the players are fit, that certainly increases the chances of having a good World Cup. If six potential starters are not available, that reduces the chances. But, the addiction is there and you can't really influence it. Unfortunately, football is a contact sport which, given the high stress levels, always leads to injuries. I hope everyone will be available next summer.”

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