“Tried a lot, done a lot”
That’s why Leroy Sané was replaced
June 21, 2026 – 7:14 a.mReading time: 1 min.
Leroy Sané is one of the most controversial players in the German national team. He wasn’t able to convince many people in the second group game either.
Leroy Sane was in focus again after being substituted in the World Cup group game against Ivory Coast. National coach Julian Nagelsmann After the 2-1 win, he stood in front of the national player and praised his efforts. “Leroy tried a lot again, did a lot,” said Nagelsmann about the offensive player, who was rarely able to make an impact in the game.
The national coach cited the space conditions as one reason for this. “You always have to see the type of player in connection with the pitch,” he said. Nagelsmann also emphasized: “Always going one-on-one is difficult on the dry pitch.”
Sané was particularly convincing against the ball. Defensively, the frequently criticized winger was “very hard-working”. The substitution of Jamie Leweling explained Nagelsmann with other considerations: He wanted to “bring in power”, “but that has nothing to do with Leroy’s performance. The important thing is that he brings the things that were sometimes denied to him. He did a great job. He supported Josh well.”
Also captain Joshua Kimmich highlighted Sané’s work against the ball. About the origin of the goal he said: “Leroy was there.” However, he did not notice Sané in this situation and therefore did not close the baseline.