Nagelsmann highlights positives after hard-fought win in Switzerland
· Yahoo Sports
Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann wanted to highlight the positive aspects, especially the performance of midfielder Florian Wirtz, after the win against Switzerland on Friday evening.
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Wirtz scored a brace and set up the other two as visiting Germany came from behind twice to win the World Cup tune-up match 4-3.
"He's already a world-class football player. And if he keeps it up, he'll be at the top of every club's wish list for a very, very long time. Because he's just incredibly good, dedicated, and always brings the necessary energy," Nagelsmann said.
The three goals carelessly conceded didn't go unnoticed, but what Nagelsmann highlighted the team's response to the setbacks.
According to him, the team came back twice without losing their dominance, nor the control in the opponents' half.
"In terms of mentality, I think that's very, very good," he praised.
Nagelsmann will address the various defensive errors but internally.
"Yes, we didn't defend quite as well in some situations," he admitted.
The coach didn't want to focus on Nico Schlotterbeck's mistakes, which handed Switzerland two of the three goals.
"He won't be reprimanded now. I think he found his feet in the game. That's the important sign for me," Nagelsmann said.
The coach also praised Arsenal forward Kai Havertz, who made his return to the national team after 16 months away due to injuries.
"He had six, seven very dangerous situations," Nagelsmann said, but added in view of the World Cup: "And yes, he needs to remain healthy and fit. Then he will be for us on the same level as Wirtz."
Germany continue their warm-up for the World Cup on Monday against Ghana. At the tournament, they will face Curaçao, Ivory Coast and Ecuador.