Nagelsmann responds to criticism after the loss to Ecuador

The German team has returned to the knock-out round for the first time since winning the 2014 World Cup. However, after a 1-2 defeat against Ecuador, this team received a lot of criticism for their playing style and attitude. Coach Julian Nagelsmann had a press conference on Monday morning before the match with Paraguay and responded to these criticisms.

"I don't feel like I have an obligation to prove something to others. We're happy to have the support from all the fans. We're also happy that the pundits and critics said after the match, 'It was a good match,'" Nagelsmann, 38, said. He also said that he only has "an obligation to prove something" to his players.

According to Nagelsmann, the important thing in the round of 32 match is to prepare so that "we can play a good match." He emphasized that everything revolves around winning and the team. "In football, the only thing that matters is winning. If you win, everything is perfect. If you lose, everything will be bad. So we have to win," the coach affirmed.

Nagelsmann was also asked about how personal criticism affects him: "I think it's the same for everyone. You can answer that question yourself, and that says it all."

When asked about the possibility of personnel changes, Nagelsmann said: "There are tactical considerations to change something. But there are also considerations to keep things as they are." He doesn't want to reveal too much, because this also involves "not making the opposing coach's job easier." They want to see "what the opponent has to offer us and what can help our play."

Nathaniel Brown could return after suffering a minor muscle problem, but whether there will be any further changes will be announced on Monday in the matchday sheet.

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