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“We Want To Keep Building Our Identity”, Says Nagelsmann
Germany take on Portugal in Munich on Wednesday night (21:00 CEST) for a place in the UEFA Nations League final. Head coach Julian Nagelsmann and sporting director Rudi Völler spoke about the upcoming semi-final and the team’s preparations.
Julian Nagelsmann on…
…the team: I’ve congratulated the players on everything they’ve achieved recently – it’s a way of reminding everyone how strong and competitive this group is. Of course, we want to win both matches. Even though we’re missing a few players, the squad we have here is still excellent. We want to be in a position to win trophies – even if it’s a smaller one. We’re looking to keep building our identity through strong performances. We’re excited about the Final Four and the buzz around it here in Germany.
…his choice of goalkeeper: Marc-André ter Stegen will be our number one. I’ve spoken with Hansi Flick and with Marc – he’s looked very sharp in training. I’m confident he’ll have two great games.
…Nick Woltemade: I’ll take a close look at him in training. He’ll definitely get a chance – otherwise he wouldn’t be here. It wasn’t an easy decision to bring him in, especially as the U21s have an important tournament. But with Tim Kleindienst and Kai Havertz both out, we felt his qualities would really benefit us.
…the team’s identity: The Spain match was obviously important, and losing it was frustrating. But overall, we’re on the right track. The return fixture against Italy was really impressive – it showed what we’re capable of. The team are learning quickly. We’ve already developed a strong sense of identity, but that needs to be nurtured, and the only way to do that is by consistently beating top sides.
…Florian Wirtz’s possible transfer: I always give my honest opinion as a coach, without any club bias. Ultimately, it’s up to the player. I’ll tell him what I think is important – mainly that he’s playing regularly and ideally in a role similar to what he has at Leverkusen. Developing leadership qualities will be key too.
…the squad’s physical condition: It’s not straightforward. Some players have just come off the back of cup finals after a long Bundesliga campaign with Champions League football too. Others have already had a couple of weeks off. But that’s the case for other teams too. The players know what it means to play for Germany and they’ll give everything.
…Antonio Rüdiger: We’ve talked a lot about the incident, and I told him I thought it was wrong. He knows it can’t happen again, otherwise there’ll be bigger consequences. But people need the chance to make mistakes. If someone apologises, at some point you have to move on. He now has the opportunity to show he’s learned from it.
…Joshua Kimmich: He’s had some tough moments with the national team, and of course that gets to him. But I absolutely believe he can still win a major trophy. He’s doing a brilliant job as captain – a real role model on the pitch. And off the pitch, he does so much that people don’t see. His character and leadership are hugely important for the whole group.
…the fans at training: It means the world to see so many people coming to watch us train. It gives us a real lift, but it also reminds us that we have a responsibility to give something back, especially in Wednesday’s game.
Rudi Völler on…
…Nick Woltemade: He’s come on leaps and bounds over the past six months. In the cup final, we saw just how technically gifted he is. He’s strong, smart, elegant on the ball – and he’s shown he can score goals too. He’s still young and has plenty of room to grow. He could be a bit better in the air, but if he works on that, he’s got a big future ahead.
…the training camp: The players feel really settled here. The team spirit couldn’t be better. After a long season, it’s not easy to recharge the batteries, but I’m confident this team will turn up when it matters.
…Joshua Kimmich: He’s doing an outstanding job as captain. He’s still got time to win big trophies. Lothar Matthäus and I didn’t win our first major titles until we were 30, so he’s got plenty of time.
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BREAKING: Finally, Popular Islamic Cleric Names Those Behind Terrorism In Nigeria
In light of the recent surge in security-related attacks and acts of violence throughout Nigeria, which have garnered significant attention from international communities, including the United States, it is evident that these events have deepened divisions within the country.
Investigations have revealed the identities of those responsible for orchestrating these acts, shedding light on the motivations and affiliations behind their actions. CLICK LINK TO CONTINUE READING.
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Mikel Arteta Tight-Lipped On Declan Rice Fitness After Arsenal Midfielder Hobbled Off In Brentford Win
Arsenal fans held their breath midweek when Declan Rice unexpectedly hobbled off during the Gunners’ 2-0 win over Brentford. And if anyone was expecting a clear update from Mikel Arteta, they certainly didn’t get one.
Ahead of Arsenal’s crucial trip to Villa Park, the Spanish manager remained intentionally cryptic — and for good reason. Arsenal’s injury list is growing, and every hour seems to matter.
Arteta Says: “Let’s See” — Patience Required On Rice
Rice has become the engine, heartbeat, and battery pack of Arsenal’s midfield since arriving from West Ham. His presence is so crucial that even a minor niggle triggers panic across North London.
Although Rice himself told reporters he felt “fine” after the match, Arteta isn’t rushing any verdict.
According to the manager:
“We have another training session in the afternoon. Every hour is going to be very important to see the availability of the players.”
Translation: Nobody knows anything yet — even him.
Arsenal’s Defensive Crisis Deepens
And Rice isn’t the only concern.
Arteta also confirmed that Cristhian Mosquera is facing an uphill battle for the Villa clash. With Saliba and Gabriel already sidelined, losing Mosquera too would leave Arsenal’s defensive unit looking like a Jenga tower leaning on hope and prayers.
Arteta put it bluntly:
“That’s the more complicated one… we need to corroborate with all the testing today.”
Meanwhile, hopes remain higher for William Saliba and Leandro Trossard, with the manager saying their situations are “a matter of days.”
January Window Already Open In Arteta’s Mind
Despite spending over £250 million in the last transfer window, Arteta hinted Arsenal may need to dip back into the market — especially with injuries hitting key departments.
“We always have to be prepared… we need to be open for it.”
In football language, that usually means one thing: Phone lines will be busy in January.
Fixture Congestion? Arteta Shrugs It Off
Playing midweek at Brentford and facing Aston Villa on Saturday lunchtime is hardly ideal, but Arteta kept his cool.
“We are ready for tomorrow’s game, that’s for sure.”
Whether his squad physically is… that’s another story.
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World Cup No.7? Stunning Prediction as Cristiano Ronaldo Is Backed to Make History Again
Cristiano Ronaldo is 40, still scoring, still breaking records — and now tipped to do the unthinkable: play at a seventh FIFA World Cup.
With the 2030 tournament set to be co-hosted by Portugal, Spain, and Morocco, former Portugal striker Nuno Gomes believes the idea of Ronaldo saying his final goodbye at home could be too tempting for the all-time great to resist.
Ronaldo at 40: Still rewriting the record books
The Al-Nassr superstar continues to defy age, maintaining elite form in the Saudi Pro League and keeping himself available for Portugal. He currently boasts:
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226 international caps
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143 goals for Portugal
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A lifetime chase for 1,000 career goals
Ronaldo has previously indicated the next World Cup would be his last — but as history shows, the GOAT often changes the script.
“Maybe even he doesn’t know yet” – Nuno Gomes
Speaking to talkSPORT, Nuno Gomes said Ronaldo’s longevity makes predictions tricky:
“Only him, or maybe not even him, knows the answer. He’s still fit to play. He’s still scoring goals. And in football, that’s the most important thing.”
Gomes admits Ronaldo is no longer the explosive teenager who dazzled at 18, but insists the forward remains efficient, dangerous, and an example for younger players.
He added that Portugal boss Roberto Martinez will also play a major role in determining Ronaldo’s future appearances.
Still, the romantic idea of a final farewell in Portugal at the 2030 World Cup might be the perfect ending:
“In four years we are hosting some games. Maybe it could be an opportunity to say goodbye at home.”
Euro 2028? Don’t rule him out
Former Manchester United defender Wes Brown also believes Ronaldo’s hunger will keep him going:
“If he can bring something to the squad, why not pick him? He’s still there for the younger players and wants them to do well.”
Brown insists Ronaldo won’t retire from international football until he retires completely — and that his belief, energy, and competitiveness remain unmatched.
So… will Ronaldo play the 2030 World Cup?
If his body holds up — and knowing the way Ronaldo trains — it’s far from impossible.
A seventh World Cup would make even more history and allow him to finally say goodbye in front of home fans.
And with CR7, you can never say never.
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