Leroy Sane’s Return to the National Team: A Balancing Act Between Performance and Expectations

One notable inclusion in the Germany squad for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Luxembourg and Slovakia is Leroy Sane. After joining reigning Super Lig champions Galatasaray as a free agent from Bayern Munich this summer, this call-up signifies Sane’s first appearance in the national team since the Nations League Finals in June. However, coach Julian Nagelsmann has cautioned the 29-year-old that he must make the most of his opportunities, as they may be limited.

In a press conference on Monday, Nagelsmann stated, “If we had six or seven players to choose from in that position, it would be significantly more challenging for him. He understands that opportunities to prove himself at the national level are not limitless, and I made that clear to him.”

Nonetheless, the 38-year-old manager acknowledged that Sane has shown improvement in his performance over recent months. “Profile-wise, he possesses everything we need in that position. That is why he has this opportunity now,” he remarked. “His scoring rate and performances have markedly improved compared to the start of the season, both in the Super Lig and the Champions League. Yet, there are still areas for him to further enhance—both here and at his club.”

Jens Keller, former head coach of Stuttgart, Schalke, and Union Berlin, expressed dissatisfaction with Nagelsmann’s remarks during the press conference. He believes Sane contributes something exceptional to the German national team. “I suspect Julian Nagelsmann aimed to provoke him, but I would have approached it differently,” Keller commented to Sky Sport. “It’s not my style to publicly communicate pressure like that. Leroy may be easygoing, but he is also quite sensitive.”

Keller, who was instrumental in Sane’s professional debut in 2014, questioned whether public criticism is beneficial for the player’s performance. He noted that while Sane may have required occasional private discussions, public admonishment is counterproductive. “You can express your opinion to him privately, and he accepts it.”

Defending Sane against criticism, Keller added, “When he underperforms, the scrutiny is often harsher. However, he had some outstanding games for Bayern last season. In Germany, few possess such a remarkable left foot, impressive speed, and the ability to demand the ball.”

Keller also referred to Nagelsmann’s previous comments regarding Sane’s performance in a league with lower standards. “Ultimately, he plays for a top Turkish club and competes in the Champions League. I see nothing wrong with that,” Keller emphasized. “In my opinion, he still brings something unique. He is a genuinely good person whom I hold in high regard. Leroy would always support me.”

Former Bayern director Matthias Sammer concurred that Nagelsmann’s approach might not be ideal, asserting, “In my experience, individualists require encouragement—so much love that it can lead to friction. That is simply the reality.”

Sane has begun to demonstrate signs of reclaiming his best form after a sluggish start with Galatasaray. The German international has faced scrutiny for his lack of impact with the team, with former player Alparslan Erdem cautioning Sane to “get his head straight first” to avoid a fate similar to that of ex-Chelsea star Hakim Ziyech.

However, Sane appears to have found his rhythm, scoring three goals and providing as many assists in 15 matches across the Super Lig and the Champions League. “I needed some time to adjust. Initially, things didn’t unfold as planned on the pitch,” Sane recently shared with Sky. “I had to familiarize myself with my teammates, and vice versa, to learn how to interact and play together. This took some time. Now, in recent games, I am very pleased with my performances and want to maintain this momentum.”

Sane has previously discussed his relationship with Nagelsmann, indicating there is no animosity between them. “Julian Nagelsmann and I share a very good relationship; we get along well and have had productive discussions during training camps,” he expressed. “I am grateful for that support. I hope to be invited back when I am performing well again, as I wish to repay his trust with my performances.”

Additionally, Sane expressed his commitment to fighting for a spot in next year’s World Cup, stating, “The World Cup is a significant objective for me—the pinnacle of football. I will do everything to perform at my best and demonstrate that Julian Nagelsmann should select me. I certainly hope we enjoy a successful tournament together.”