Nagelsmann still emotional the day after elimination from the European Championship

"I want to thank the fans in the country," began the head coach in Herzogenaurach. "I have always said that we need the fans in the country because, in the past, we haven't given much back in terms of sports. We would have liked to give them more. We would have liked to win the title," said the 36-year-old Nagelsmann.

Host nation Germany was eliminated on Friday evening in the quarterfinals by a 2-1 defeat against Spain after extra time. Nagelsmann was emotional shortly after the match and even a day later, he could hardly hold back his tears. The loss was a significant blow to the team and the country, which had high hopes for success in the tournament.

During his press conference, Nagelsmann spoke candidly about the emotional toll of the elimination. He expressed his gratitude for the unwavering support of the fans, acknowledging their importance to the team's morale and spirit. "The fans have been incredible throughout the tournament. Their support has been a source of strength for us," he noted. Despite the disappointment, Nagelsmann emphasized the importance of maintaining a positive relationship with the supporters.

He hopes that the bond built with the supporters will extend into everyday life, where individualism is increasingly prevalent. "I have never seen anyone do everything successfully alone. If I help my neighbor trim the hedge, he finishes faster. We have problems in our country, but we can also think in terms of solutions. Togetherness needs to become more important again."

Nagelsmann's comments reflect a broader concern about societal trends towards isolation and self-reliance. He stressed the value of community and mutual support, both in sports and in everyday life. "Football teaches us about teamwork and solidarity. These are values that we need to carry beyond the field," he said.

The coach also reflected on the lessons learned from the tournament and the importance of resilience. "This defeat is painful, but it is also an opportunity to grow. We will analyze what went wrong and come back stronger," he promised. Nagelsmann's determination to improve and his vision for the future were evident in his words.

In conclusion, Nagelsmann called for a renewed focus on unity and collective effort. "We need to stand together, both as a team and as a society. This is how we will overcome challenges and achieve great things," he urged. His message resonated with many, highlighting the enduring power of sports to inspire and unite people.