Germany and former Bayern Munich star Leon Goretzka has stated that after two successive group stage exits in the 2014 and 2018 FIFA World Cups, the team is determined to rectify their performance and regain the trust of German fans. He emphasized that "dwelling on past mistakes would not do any good."
Germany's World Cup Campaign Begins
Germany will kick off their World Cup campaign against Curacao on June 14 in Houston. They are placed in Group E alongside Curacao, Ecuador, and Ivory Coast. After winning the 2014 edition, Germany crashed out in the group stages of the next two tournaments. Now, the team aims to add a fifth star to their shirt.
Goretzka on Motivation and Team Spirit
Speaking to FIFA, Goretzka revealed that the "biggest motivation" for him and the team is to win over the hearts of German fans once again. He acknowledged that the sense of euphoria and togetherness with the fans is currently lacking, as they have lost some faith in the team. "That's actually my biggest personal motivation, and the same goes for the whole team," he said.
Goretzka stressed the importance of learning from mistakes without dwelling on them. "You can and should always learn from your mistakes, but dwelling on them now would not do us any good. We simply want to look ahead and take this opportunity in front of us. We know we have a good team," he added.
Germany Not Among Top Favorites
Despite being ranked 10th in the world, Goretzka does not consider Germany as "top favourites." He noted that the situation is different from past tournaments, but the team can still achieve a lot if they are fit and in form. "I do not think we will be among the top favourites, let's be honest. Nevertheless, there are very high expectations of us as a footballing nation, and rightly so," he commented.
Goretzka highlighted the presence of top stars in the team and expressed confidence that if everyone is fit and in form, they can achieve a lot at this World Cup. "If we're able to grow as a team during the tournament, the sky's the limit. But I do not see us as top favourites," he added.
Coach Nagelsmann's Call for Intensity
Regarding head coach Julian Nagelsmann's demand for intensity, physicality, and fighting spirit on the pitch, Goretzka agreed that such qualities are essential for the team. "In other words, the potential is there - we just have to make sure we realise it every game," he said.
Key to Success: Team Cohesion and Physicality
Goretzka identified growing together as a team and understanding each other's movements on the pitch as key factors for a successful campaign. He also emphasized the importance of physicality, noting his experience in the Club World Cup last year and the extreme conditions expected. "That will certainly be a factor, and that is why we will have to be in peak condition. And then, just as in every tournament, luck will of course be a big factor. If everything comes together, then we really can go far," he concluded.
