Joachim Low has decided to recall Thomas Muller to the Germany squad ahead of Euro 2020, two years after effectively calling time on the Bayern Munich attacker’s international career.
Muller’s last outing with Die Mannschaft came in 2018, when they drew 2-2 with the Netherlands in the UEFA Nations League. It was his 100th appearance for Germany and, up until now, it looked like it would be his last.
In March 2019, Low announced that he would no longer be selecting Muller, Jerome Boateng and then-Bayern teammate Mats Hummels. “2019 is the year of a new start for the German national team,” he said. “In the year of qualifying for the European Championship 2020, we are sending a clear signal of renewal.
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“The young national team players will have the space they need to fully develop… we want to give the team a new face. I am convinced that this is the right step.”
Muller wasn’t pleased with the decision, admitting afterwards that it came as a shock, saying: “Of course I was surprised by the decision of the coach.
“A national team coach has to make sporting decisions, I don’t question that. But the longer I think about it, the more I’m angry about the way this has happened. I have no understanding for the suggested definitiveness of this decision.”
As it turns out, Low’s decision wasn’t as definitive as it seemed. According to DW Sports , Muller will be included in the squad which goes to the rescheduled Euros this summer.
Muller has had another influential season with Bayern, scoring 15 goals in 45 appearances. Still only 31, he has just secured his ninth consecutive Bundesliga title with the Bavarians.
While many Germany fans will be glad to see him back, there has also been some bad news for the national team, as Barcelona goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen won’t be able to join up with the squad after announcing that he is set to undergo knee surgery.
Taking to Instagram after Barca’s 2-1 loss to Celta Vigo at the weekend, he said: “I’m disappointed about [Sunday’s] defeat and that now we can no longer win La Liga. After a complicated start to the season, we showed good character going 19 matches unbeaten – but we weren’t able to keep this form.
“I have decided together with the medical team of the club that I will do a complementary intervention on my knee. I’m sad that I will miss the Euro 2020 this summer with Germany.
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“For the first time in many years I will be a fan at home supporting my country, I hope we win it!
“After the summer break, when we are back on the pitch I hope to be able to play with fans once again, I miss it!
“Thank you for your support throughout a difficult season and stay healthy!”
While Low will still be able to call on Manuel Neuer, Ter Stegen’s absence will deprive him of an excellent goalkeeper.
His other options include Arsenal’s Bernd Leno, Hoffenheim’s Oliver Baumann, Arminia Bielefeld’s Stefan Ortega and Eintracht Frankfurt’s Kevin Trapp.
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