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The Germany international Leon Goretzka has said Donald Trump’s actions have left him feeling “not only German but also European”. The US president has recently threatened to take Greenland by force and called Europe “weak” and “decaying”.
Goretzka, who hopes to make the Germany squad for the World Cup in the US, Canada and Mexico this summer, told Die Zeit: “Of course, I’m aware of the political debates. I still expect it to be a great tournament – it will promote football there, and show many people want an incredibly exciting game. Donald Trump makes us feel not only German but also European.”
The Bayern Munich midfielder is convinced Europe can show where the power lies on the pitch in June and July. “In the most important game in the world, we are still ahead of all other continents,” he said. “Far from being left behind, Europe will show everyone what it’s made of on the pitch.”
Trump lashed out at Europe in December, threatening to stop supporting Ukraine and also saying: “If it keeps going the way it’s going, Europe will not be … in my opinion … many of those countries will not be viable countries any longer. Their immigration policy is a disaster.” In January, he threatened to annex Greenland and said in Davos last week that he would not use force. “All the US is asking for is a place called Greenland,” he said. “You can say yes, and we will be very appreciative. Or you can say no and we will remember.”
The 30-year-old Goretzka has previously spoken out on racism, diversity and the climate crisis, but has become more careful in his public statements in recent years. “When you speak out as a sportsperson you take a risk,” he said. “You have to be winning, otherwise these commitments count against you, are deliberately misunderstood or misquoted.”
Germany face Curaçao in Houston, Côte d’Ivoire in Toronto and Ecuador in New Jersey in the World Cup group stage. Goretzka is back in the team after the coach, Julian Nagelsmann, dropped him for Euro 2024 on home soil. “A discussion [with the coach] was necessary, it was the basis for further cooperation,” he said. “I don’t need to mention how hard that missed opportunity hit me.”
The former Schalke player has six months on his Bayern contract and is considering a move abroad, having only ever played in Germany. “It would be exciting to go abroad during my career,” he said. “I’m in my comfort zone in Munich. Taking a step out of that would also be a step towards my personal development. Getting to know something new would enrich my life.”
The Premier League could be an option, he says: “There are a lot of people who think my style of football would be a very good fit for England. I will listen to everything and weigh it up carefully. I am looking forward to the talks.” Goretzka is not ruling out staying in Munich, having regained his place under Vincent Kompany.
