Leon Goretzka Opens Up on Germany’s World Cup Struggles and Fresh Start Plan
Leon Goretzka has spoken about Germany’s recent World Cup disappointments and stressed the need for a fresh start. He highlighted rebuilding fan trust, team unity, and adapting to new challenges under Julian Nagelsmann ahead of the upcoming World Cup campaign.
June 09, 2026: Germany midfielder and former Bayern Munich star Leon Goretzka has said that the team is determined to correct its recent World Cup failures and rebuild trust with German supporters. After back-to-back group stage exits in the 2014 and 2018 FIFA World Cups, Goretzka admitted that the squad understands the disappointment among fans but believes the focus must now shift fully toward the future rather than dwelling on past mistakes.
Germany aim to rebuild trust and start fresh in the World Cup campaign
Germany will begin their World Cup campaign against Curacao on June 14 in Houston. They have been placed in Group E alongside Curacao, Ecuador, and Ivory Coast. After lifting the 2014 FIFA World Cup, Germany endured shocking group-stage exits in both 2018 and 2022, and now the team will aim to restore its reputation on the global stage and push for a record fifth World Cup title.
Speaking to FIFA, Goretzka said that the “biggest motivation” for him and the entire squad is to win back the hearts of German fans. He admitted that the strong bond and sense of unity between the team and supporters has weakened in recent years, but emphasised that the squad is eager to rebuild that connection through performances on the pitch.
➡️ℹ️🇩🇪 Leon Goretzka has said he would actually prefer it if Germany were top favorites for the World Cup;
🗣"We don't feel like we're among the top favorites. We have to be honest about that. To be honest, I'd rather be the top favorite. I know that feeling well from my club,… pic.twitter.com/5Lf9Z8HCvf
— Bavarian Football Works (@BavarianFBWorks) June 8, 2026
He also acknowledged that Germany are not considered among the top favourites for the tournament. According to him, expectations remain high because of the nation’s footballing history, but the current team must first prove itself again at the highest level. Goretzka added that consistency, fitness, and teamwork will be essential if Germany are to compete with the best sides in the world.
Goretzka also supported head coach Julian Nagelsmann’s demand for intensity, physicality, and fighting spirit. He said these qualities are non-negotiable in modern tournament football and will play a crucial role in Germany’s campaign. He stressed that every player must contribute fully and maintain high standards throughout the competition.
Looking ahead, Goretzka said the key for Germany will be building strong chemistry and understanding between players on the pitch. He highlighted that adapting quickly to match situations, staying physically prepared, and maintaining unity as a team will be vital. He also pointed out that external factors such as conditions and luck will always influence tournament outcomes, but insisted that Germany have the potential to go far if everything comes together at the right time.