2026 World Cup: Julian Nagelsmann sides with Thomas Tuchel

20.06.26 FT World Cup

Germany

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Ivory Coast

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On Saturday, following a hard-fought win against Ivory Coast, Julian Nagelsmann made a point of expressing his support for Thomas Tuchel.

This stance is particularly aimed at the new protocol introduced by FIFA during the national anthems at the 2026 World Cup. Nagelsmann admitted he shares his counterpart’s frustration, especially highlighting the excessive proximity of photographers stationed in front of the dugouts, which he believes disrupts what is supposed to be a solemn and unifying moment.

"I don’t know if we can really complain, but I agree with Thomas Tuchel. The national anthem is a very emotional moment, an opportunity to build a bond with the players. (...) Here, the photographers are really very close. I feel like their huge lenses are snapping pictures of the hairs in my nose from just a centimeter away," he joked.

Joshua SOSSOU

Editorfr, en, ar

As a sports fan, and particularly a football fan, I've been putting my writing talent to good use for a number of years now to promote African talent and the continent's football in general. On Foot Africa, enjoy reading each of my lines.

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