MUNICH — Bayern Munich and German national team midfielder Leon Goretzka has made a striking declaration about European football superiority ahead of the 2026 World Cup, while simultaneously addressing growing political tensions surrounding the tournament. In a recent interview with Die Zeit newspaper, the prominent footballer suggested that unexpected political developments have strengthened continental unity. “The current political climate has unexpectedly reinforced our sense of European identity,” Goretzka stated, though he refrained from directly naming specific political figures. The athlete’s comments come amid increasing calls for tournament boycotts from various football authorities across Europe. Oke Göttlich, president of Bundesliga club St. Pauli and vice president of the German football association, recently advocated for serious consideration of boycott options. Even former FIFA president Sepp Blatter has entered the contentious discussion surrounding the North American-hosted event. Despite the political controversies, Goretzka remains optimistic about the tournament’s potential impact: “I anticipate an exceptional championship that will significantly advance football’s popularity in the host nations and showcase the sport’s universal appeal.” Germany finds itself positioned in World Cup Group E alongside Ivory Coast, Curaçao, and Ecuador, setting the stage for what promises to be a highly competitive international showdown.
Germany midfielder Goretzka says Trump makes ‘us feel not only German but also European’
