“We now have to wait 2 years to become world champions” - Julian Nagelsmann explains what 'hurts' him about Germany crashing out of Euro 2024

Germany head coach Julian Nagelsmann has explained it hurts that they have to wait two more years to become world champions, following their elimination from Euro 2024. The host nation lost 2-1 to Spain in the quarter-finals at the MHPArena in Stuttgart on Friday, July 5.

After a goalless first half, Spain opened the scoring through Dani Olmo in the 51st minute. German midfielder Florian Wirtz netted the equalizer in the 89th minute to take the match into extra time.

Just when it looked like a penalty shootout was on the cards, Mikel Merino scored the winning goal in the 119th minute.

Speaking about the heartbreaking elimination from Euro 2024 after the game, Julian Nagelsmann said (via @Plettigoal on X):

"It also hurts that we now have to wait two years to become world champions. What can I say? That we want to be eliminated in the group stage? Of course, we want to become world champions."

Nagelsmann, who took charge as head coach of Germany in 2023, has his contract valid until 2026.

Germany have won the UEFA European Championship thrice in 1972, 1980, and 1996.

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Julian Nagelsmann opens up about Toni Kroos after Germany's Euro 2024 elimination

Germany's quarter-final loss against Spain in the Euro 2024 was Toni Kroos' last match. The Real Madrid legend announced his decision to hang up his boots on May 21, mentioning that he will retire after the Euro.

After the hosts' elimination from Euro 2024, Julian Nagelsmann spoke about Kroos, saying (via @_LGalacticos on X):

"Kroos is certainly one of the best players in German history. Everyone knows about his successes, but not everyone knows about his character. He spoke to the team at a very difficult moment."

Toni Kroos, who made his senior debut for Germany in 2010, netted 17 goals and provided 21 assists in 114 appearances for the nation. He helped Germany win the FIFA World Cup in 2014.

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