Overview
- Julian Nagelsmann insisted his remarks about Leroy Sané not having "countless" chances were discussed with the player and intended to elicit performance, saying he "didn't do this for fun."
- High-profile figures including Matthias Sammer, Lothar Matthäus and Jens Keller criticized the public approach, arguing such feedback should be delivered privately.
- Leroy Sané returned to the starting XI, provided the assist for Nick Woltemade’s opener and contributed to the move for the second goal in the 2-0 victory over Luxembourg.
- Sané said he was happy to be back and described a constructive rapport with Nagelsmann, crediting the coach’s mix of "love" and toughness.
- Germany and Slovakia are level on points before Monday’s match in Leipzig, with Germany top on goal difference and needing only a draw to secure direct qualification.