German football coach Julian Nagelsmann has spoken out against a recent poll that revealed 21% of respondents agreed with a proposition that has been deemed racist. The poll, conducted by the ARD public broadcaster, has sparked controversy and criticism from Nagelsmann and Germany midfielder Joshua Kimmich.
Nagelsmann, 36, expressed his agreement with Kimmich’s assessment of the poll, calling the question “insane” and emphasizing the importance of acknowledging the struggles of those who have had to flee their countries for various reasons. He criticized the lack of awareness and empathy in Germany, a country that he believes is doing well economically.
The poll was commissioned by ARD to gather data on the diversity of the national football team, which has players with mixed heritage like captain Ilkay Gündogan and Leroy Sané. The results of the poll have highlighted the social situation in Germany and the importance of sports, particularly football, in promoting integration.
As Germany prepares to host the Euro 2024 tournament, Nagelsmann emphasized that his team will be playing for all the people in the country. The controversy surrounding the poll comes shortly after Adidas, the team’s kit manufacturer, banned fans from customizing German football kits with the number 44 due to its resemblance to the symbol used by Nazi SS units during World War Two.
The SS was responsible for heinous crimes against humanity, including the administration of death camps where millions of people, including Jews, were killed. The backlash against the poll and the kit customization issue highlight the ongoing challenges of addressing racism and promoting diversity in Germany and beyond.
