German football federation (DFB) president Bernd Neuendorf has urged the national team to not miss the opportunity to make amends during the home Euro 2024.
“Together, we will draw the necessary conclusions from the experience at the World Cup in Qatar,” Neuendorf wrote in an open letter published on Saturday.
Just like in 2018 in Russia, Germany were eliminated from the tournament in Qatar before the knock-out stages. After another debacle, Neuendorf promised a serious and structured approach in view of the Euros.
“Self-critical and open-minded, but full of motivation and confidence. Because with the Euro 2024 we have a great opportunity in front of us – which we must not miss,” he stressed.
The DFB president took the chance to acknowledge the greatness of former director Oliver Bierhoff, who resigned after the World Cup, and to praise coach Hansi Flick.
“We’re absolutely convinced of his leadership style, his idea of football, his passion and positive energy for a successful European Championship,” Neuendorf wrote.
He also praised the women’s national team after they reached the final of the Euro 2022 and despite the defeat to England.
“I’m sure that the team headed by coach Martina Voss-Tecklenburg will also play for the title at the World Cup in New Zealand and Australia next year,” he said.
