Germany’s head coach, Nagelsmann, has revealed that Kai Havertz will lead the line for the national team as a striker in the 2024 European Championship.
Havertz has predominantly played as an attacking midfielder or forward for both club and country throughout his career. However, in an unusual move, he was deployed at left-back in a 3-2 friendly win against Turkey in November last year. Despite scoring in that match, Nagelsmann had acknowledged beforehand that it wouldn’t be a permanent position for Havertz.
Heading into the upcoming Euro tournament, the German team boss has stated that the 24-year-old will be a key figure up front.
Speaking about his attacking options in a press conference, Nagelsmann said, “We are delighted to have Florian Wirtz back with us. It’s great for the team to have a classic number 9 again, with a clear role. As long as Havertz performs well, he is one step ahead in the pecking order; he needs to maintain his form. Wirtz will get his chances and bring goal threats.”
Havertz has started the last three games for Germany as a center-forward, including a match against France in March where he found the back of the net.
Havertz is looking forward to the competition with Wirtz: “We get along very well. Healthy competition is always crucial, and we bring different qualities. For us, it’s important to put our egos aside and serve the team.”