Ilkay Gündogan praised national soccer coach Hansi Flick, who was released on Sunday, despite his poor record. “Thank you for the time together, the mutual appreciation and the cooperation, Hansi. You are a great person and coach,” wrote Gündogan, who was appointed captain by Flick just a few days ago, on social media late on Sunday evening.
“It’s a shame that we as a team couldn’t repay your great trust in us!” said the 32-year-old FC Barcelona midfielder. “As a team, we will continue to try to learn in order to come back stronger for a successful home European Championship in 2024 – also for you! I wish you only the best for the future!”
The German Football Association separated from the 58-year-old Flick on Sunday. The association drew the conclusions after the 4-1 defeat against Japan in Wolfsburg on Saturday. At the next international match against France on Tuesday (9 p.m./ARD), sports director Rudi Völler, Hannes Wolf and Sandro Wagner will oversee the selection on an interim basis.