Matthias Ginter criticizes Julian Nagelsmann over World Cup omission

German defender Matthias Ginter has criticized former national team coach Julian Nagelsmann regarding his omission from the 2026 World Cup squad. In a recent interview with kicker, the 32-year-old SC Freiburg player described the period as the "bitterest in my career."

Ginter noted that he suffered a double setback within a twelve-hour window: first, losing the Europa League final against Aston Villa, and shortly thereafter, receiving news that he would not be included in the German World Cup roster.

The player specifically criticized Nagelsmann's communication and timing. Ginter stated that despite various leaks occurring beforehand, he was not personally informed of his exclusion until the day of the official nominations. Having been part of the national team squads for the 2014, 2018, and 2022 World Cups, Ginter expressed that the manner in which the decision was handled was particularly disappointing.