For some, this summer’s World Cup will be played against a backdrop of simmering tension following President Donald Trump’s remarks about European allies in recent months.
The U.S. President described Europe as “weak” and “decaying” and has reiterated his desire to take control of Greenland. While some have called on European nations to boycott the tournament, Germany midfielder Leon Goretzka has revealed how Trump’s comments have strengthened his resolve to represent his nation at the tournament.
In an interview with the German newspaper ‘Di Zeit’ on Wednesday, Goretzka said that Trump’s comments had “managed to make us feel not only German, but also European.”
He continued: “Of course, I’m aware of the political debates. I still expect it to be a great tournament – it will promote football there, and show many people want an incredibly exciting game.”
Is European soccer still supreme?
The most recent World Cup, held in Qatar in 2022, ended a long run of European dominance. Since Brazil triumphed in 2002, European nations had dominated the World Cup with wins for Italy, Spain, Germany and France, before Argentina lifted the trophy in 2022.
Both Argentina and Brazil will be among the favorites again this year, while the likes of Morocco and Colombia will be outside bets for the trophy. Nevertheless, Goretkza believes that European soccer nations still reign supreme.
“Others have caught up with us, but in the world’s most important sport, we are still ahead of all other continents. Far from falling behind, Europe will show everyone what it’s made of on the field,” he said.
This year’s World Cup has faced some calls for boycotts, largely from those within the European game. Oke Gottlich, president of Bundesliga club St. Pauli and one of the 10 vice-presidents of the German Football Association, said last week that the time had come to “seriously consider and discuss a boycott.”
For now, however, FIFA is not showing concern about the complex diplomatic situation. FIFA President Gianni Infantino has maintained an unusually close relationship with Trump since he returned to the White House and continues to maintain that “football unites the world.”