Hoeneß offers surprising praise for Nagelsmann | OneFootball

Uli Hoeneß had sharply criticized Julian Nagelsmann on several occasions leading up to the World Cup. Following the 2-1 victory over Ivory Coast, the Bayern honorary president has now struck a much more conciliatory tone.

Uli Hoeneß made surprisingly positive comments about Julian Nagelsmann following the German national team’s hard-fought 2-1 victory over Ivory Coast. The Bayern honorary president, who had criticized the national team coach several times before the World Cup, praised above all the mentality of the German national team and the coach’s substitutions.

During halftime of Game 5 of the BBL Finals between ALBA Berlin and FC Bayern Basketball, Hoeneß told Dyn: “It’s important to note that Germany put up an incredible fight yesterday. But there are still some tough opponents to face on the way to the title.”

With these words, the 74-year-old paid tribute to the German team’s performance, which had to work hard for a long time against Ivory Coast and only secured the victory late in the game.

Particularly notable: Hoeneß explicitly highlighted Nagelsmann’s decisions. The national team coach had brought in two players—Deniz Undav and Nadiem Amiri—who injected new energy into Germany’s play. Undav ultimately became the match-winner with his two goals.

Hoeneß voiced criticism on several occasions

“However, if they continue to grow together as a team and the coach makes substitutions as well as he did yesterday, things could turn out well,” Hoeneß predicted.

For Nagelsmann, this praise is likely quite remarkable. During the tournament’s preparations, Hoeneß had criticized the national team coach on several occasions. Among other things, he took issue with the decision to start Joshua Kimmich at right back, as well as with the handling of Oliver Baumann following Manuel Neuer’s return.

Photo: IMAGO

Hoeneß and Nagelsmann are said to have since cleared the air. In any case, his latest comments show that the Bayern honorary president views the national team’s progress in a much more positive light.

Thanks to the victory over Ivory Coast, Germany has already secured a spot in the knockout round. Following the 0-0 draw between Ecuador and Curaçao, the DFB squad is even atop the group. For Hoeneß, the road to the title is still long—but from his perspective, the team seems to be heading in the right direction.