They fought hard, but still lost: Ilkay Gündogan and other national players expressed their disappointment to the fans after the European Championship exit.
German national players have expressed themselves with emotional words on their Instagram pages following the 1:2 defeat against Spain in the quarter-finals of the European Championship on home soil. First and foremost captain Ilkay Gündogan (33), who wrote just shortly after the dramatic match in Stuttgart: “It is so unbelievably bitter.”
“We gave everything”
The footballer, who has been captain of the German national team since 2023, continued: “We gave it our all and we were sooooo close. And you supported us so well – today was the best atmosphere I have ever experienced at a DFB international match, it was really a unique atmosphere – wow!” It was “a huge honor” for him “to be able to lead this team onto the field as captain at the home European Championships”.
He was “really optimistic” that the team could get “very far in the tournament”. The FC Barcelona player emphasised: “Even if our elimination comes too soon, I think we were able to show today that we can take on absolutely any opponent – yes, we can even be the better team!” The defeat was “so annoying… it will take some time to get over it”. Finally, he thanked everyone “who made this tournament so special for us”. The team had “felt the support throughout”.
Florian Wirtz is “very disappointed”
Florian Wirtz (21) also had his say. The young talent scored a goal in the 89th minute, giving Germany extra time. He wrote in English: “Very disappointed to be out of the tournament. We deserved more. Still proud of the team and the great trip! Thanks for the support.”
Thomas Müller thanks everyone “who cheered with us”
National team veteran Thomas Müller (34): “I am proud to be part of this team and, above all, proud to be German. Thank you to everyone who cheered us on and was a great host.” The FC Bayern star appealed: “Let’s take this feeling with us into our everyday lives, especially in these current times.”
Source: Stern
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