Germany national team head coach Julian Nagelsmann and game-winning goal-scorer Deniz Undav have both addressed the fan discontent, specifically the booing of Leroy Sané, observed last night in Stuttgart. Sané, who was considered a vital player just recently, has been struggling with inconsistent form for both his club (Bayern Munich) and the national team. His performance in Friday’s match against Switzerland was unconvincing.
Recent surveys indicate that only a small fraction of German fans want Sané in the World Cup squad. The growing popularity of young talents also contributes to the perception that Sané is becoming “yesterday’s news.” When Sané entered the match last night in the 78th minute, the MHP-Arena crowd greeted him with a chorus of boos.
It’s worth noting that it was Sané who provided the assist for Undav’s decisive goal in that match.
Stuttgart goalkeeper Alexander Nübel also commented on the booing in the mixed zone.
Nagelsmann, Undav, and Nübel Criticize Jeering of Leroy Sané
Undav, having already completed his interview with a German public broadcaster, specifically asked for the microphone back. He thanked the fans of his Bundesliga club for their support but felt compelled to make a statement regarding Sané. The Stuttgart forward, always a strong advocate for his teammates, made a direct appeal to German fans.
“I ask that next time, when Leroy or any other player comes on, people don’t boo,” the 29-year-old stated. “You should stand behind the team. It’s important that we, as a team, form a united front with the fans. I hope it won’t be like this at the [World Cup] tournament. I thought it was a shame because, ultimately, we are one team. Leroy is just as much a part of us as any other team member. I hope they will support him.”
“I directly addressed the fans before and found myself caught in a shitstorm because of it,” Nagelsmann added at the post-match press conference. “Generally, I don’t like it when our players get booed before they’ve even had their first chance. I don’t think that’s fair, but it is what it is.”
“That’s total bullshit,” Nübel said when asked about Sané in the mixed zone. “We want to head to America together as one nation. We can’t be divided. We need to foster a positive spirit together. I simply cannot comprehend the booing.”
