Nagelsmann and Kimmich accuse German broadcaster of racism

Coach Julian Nagelsmann denounced the Canal ARD, from Germany, in an interview carried out this Monday, following a racist poll carried out with spectators. The poll asked whether the German team should have more white players in its squad. 21% of participants responded yes.

“This question is crazy. There are people in Europe who had to flee due to war, economic factors, environmental catastrophes, people who simply want to be welcomed,” said Nagelsmann in a tone of incredulity.

“We are playing a European Championship for everyone in the country. I hope I never read about such a shitty survey again.”@J__Nagelsmann (@DFB_Team) pic.twitter.com/MRxXykBQ6a

— Nurder Koch (@NurderK) June 2, 2024

Bayern Munich full-back Joshua Kimmich had previously denounced the poll as racist. Last Saturday, he was asked if this issue was discussed within the team:

“This hasn’t been an issue within the team. Anyone who grew up around football knows this is nonsense. Football brings people of different skin colors and religions together, and that’s what it’s all about. I would miss a lot of players if they weren’t here. So that’s absolutely it. racist. This research is absolutely counterproductive.”

Nagelsmann also echoed his player’s statements in today’s interview, agreeing with him:

“Josh (Kimmich) responded very well, with a very clear and considered statement. I see it exactly the same way. (…) We have to ask what we are doing right now. Sport plays an important role in our society , the national team is a strong example of integration”, said the German coach.

O Canal ARDin his defense, claimed to have carried out the inquiry after a reporter who was working on a documentary about football and diversity was repeatedly questioned about the composition of the German team.

“We are competing in a European Championship for everyone in the country. I hope I never read about such bad research again.”, concluded Nagelsmann.