The big game is approaching. With just one day to go until the friendly match between France and Germany in Paris, Joachim Löw faced the media to talk about the upcoming game, and in particular, Mario Gomez, Sami Khedira and Leroy Sané.
Joachim Löw on…
… Sami Khedira: I think that Sami is ready. He has made a good impression in training and I feel like he is nearing the form he once had. He thrives on having a presence in midfield, winning 50-50s and playing forward once he’s won the ball. He has shown how much quality he has.
… Leroy Sané: He has an incredible awareness of space and he can put his pace to good use. His runs are subtle and despite only being 19, he has shown a lot of promise and has convinced us. He is a cunning player with a lot of technical ability.
Mario Gomez: It’s hard to make an assessment just from training sessions, but I saw Mario in Turkey, and he has had a big impact there, scoring several goals in the league. He has been unbelievably motivated since the World Cup to be able to go the EUROs.
… the ideal formation: I haven’t come to a decision yet. Some are set in stone, but for others there are a lot of options. I need to think and we will see what we can bring to the table after the final training session tonight.
… Works in progress: We know our situation. We went through a tough qualification process where we tried a few different things. Everything that has happened up until now has been preparation. The full backs need to get experience and learn. Everyone makes mistakes. Up front we have players with real quality. Everyone wants good results but for me, the important thing is to try new things, see what works, analyse and then take that all to the training camp. Then it is on to the European Championships.
… France’s development since the World Cup: France are better and more mature than they were at the World Cup. I have rarely seen a team that attacks with such purpose and determination. When the French find their tempo, they really get going. They have fast, strong technical players. Paul Pogba is central to their game. Kingsley Coman has proved himself very quickly at Bayern and is difficult to stop. He can play on both sides. France will want to know where they stand, and a game and the World Cup holders is the perfect way for them to find out.
… the last international games of the year: We are looking forward to both games, they are two big names in world football. We are now playing in the stadium that will host the European Championship final. France are a team full of good individual players who are very dynamic, play direct football and are definitely, as a team, world class. The game will be explosive.