Klinsmann talks about Germany’s strikers | OneFootball

In an extensive interview with Transfermarkt, Jürgen Klinsmann shares his views about Julian Nagelsmann’s options in the attacking department. The former Bundestrainer sits joint-fourth in Germany’s all-time scoring chart alongside Rudi Völler.

The Nationalmannschaft finished fourth in the Nations League after home defeats to Portugal and France. However, the 60-year-old saw the positive side of facing issues way ahead of next year’s World Cup.

“The two performances demonstrate that there is still a long way to go until the 2026 World Cup,” said Klinsmann for Transfermarkt’s editorial team. “But that's a good thing. The more problems they now face, the more the team matures and is forced to address these problems on the road to the World Cup.

"They'll definitely be in the mix as the favorites, and they should have nothing to fear. Of course, the Portuguese and Spanish look very dominant at the moment, but there are ways to beat teams like that. And with the Argentinians and Brazilians, things will get really interesting."

Klinsmann also pointed out that Nagelsmann should be mainly judged on the World Cup results. The 37-year-old has only won 12 of his 23 matches since replacing Hansi Flick at the helm. "Nobody cares about points-per-game if Germany is successful at the World Cup. They'll still go through a few rollercoaster rides, but I'm convinced the boys will follow him and give it their all."

In particular, the former Stuttgart striker hailed the rising star Nick Woltemade. "I think Woltemade has an incredible talent, but we have to give him time. I think Tim Kleindienst has also made another leap, and a lot will depend on their physical condition in a year," said Klinsmann.

Germany will play six qualifying games between September and November as they are grouped alongside Slovakia, Northern Ireland and Luxembourg.  "A lot depends on the internal atmosphere and hierarchy. They have to grow together and be willing to give their all for each other. Then we can compete with everyone. That's what we all want," concludes Klinsmann.