Last fall, Germany head coach Julian Nagelsmann declared that players would have to put up numbers in competitive leagues to be considered for a spot on the World Cup squad.
Galatasaray attacker Leroy Sané proceeded to put up just seven goals and nine assists in 43 games across all competitions. Those numbers, while playing in Türkiye, are average at best. So what gives?
Nagelsmann explained his rationale for the selection?
“His numbers at club level weren’t high enough. With us, he’s racked up five goal contributions in the last four games. Of course, I also have to assess his performances for the national team. He’s a subject of much debate. It’s becoming increasingly clear what he’s lacking. He’s extremely popular within the team — with Antonio (Rüdiger), Jona (Tah), Jamal (Musiala) – I could name 15 others – I have a good connection with him,” Nagelsmann said (as captured by @iMiaSanMia). “A real synergy can develop in the tournament. He has something special about playing in tight spaces. Given his perhaps not-so-great numbers at club level, he might initially find himself in a challenger role.
“He can make a big impact against deep-lying defenses with his speed and technique. I have a great relationship with him and I’m confident I can push him to his limits so that there will be much more positive feedback about him after the World Cup.”
This will certainly not dispel the notion that there is a tinge of favoritism for Sané from Nagelsmann. Now, it will be up to the former Bayern Munich winger to make the coach look smart.
That is the wonderful thing about sports, though, in the end the scoreboard will show the winner. If Sané performs well and the team makes a strong run, it will look like a masterclass from Nagelsmann. If not, well, the coach will have some explaining to do.
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