Nagelsmann Stands by Sané Ahead of Crucial Match Against Ivory Coast

Germany's head coach Julian Nagelsmann has expressed his unwavering support for winger Leroy Sané, confirming his inclusion in the starting eleven for Saturday's match against Ivory Coast in the 2026 FIFA World Cup Group E. This decision comes after a mixed performance from Sané in Germany's impressive 7-1 victory over Curaçao, where he missed several key opportunities and did not score.

During a press briefing on Friday, Nagelsmann addressed the scrutiny surrounding Sané's performance, stating, "He has trained well. I'm not someone that can be swayed by public opinion. I don't see why I should drop him." The coach emphasized that criticism often surrounds Sané, whether it pertains to his goal tally or his dedication on the pitch. "In my view, he played well, he trained well, and he will have a good match for us tomorrow," he added.

Despite Sané's ongoing struggle to find the net in 13 major tournament appearances, which includes the European Championships and the World Cup, Nagelsmann sees no justification for altering the lineup. He acknowledged the challenges posed by Ivory Coast, noting their physicality and speed as significant threats. "They are physically very strong, which could cause us problems. Their pace and their quality in one-on-one situations are their biggest strengths," he remarked.

A win against Ivory Coast would secure Germany's advancement to the knockout stages, setting the stage for their final group clash against Ecuador. "We want to win tomorrow, that's the goal," Nagelsmann concluded, underlining the team's determination to succeed.