Fulham’s Bernd Leno refused to represent Germany during this month’s international break.
This was initially reported by the German press and then confirmed by the player himself last week. Julian Nagelsmann wanted him as a the third-choice goalkeeper, which didn’t go down well with the 32-year-old.
Leno’s decision to not accept the call up wasn’t received well by a section of the media in his country. West Ham technical director Tim Steidten was one of them who suggested the Fulham player to not turn it down.
Sky Deutschland have spoken to the stopper, and it was no surprise to see them quiz him about his decision to be part of the national team squad. The Fulham man was honest in admitting he was surprised with the noise it made in Germany.
“I have to say that, surprisingly, there has been quite a lot of talk and writing about it. I didn’t expect that either… But everything has been said. Most of what was in the media was true,” he said.
“Julian Nagelsmann was relatively clear about the situation. I spoke to him relatively openly and honestly. There was no beating around the bush, so everything was fine.”
Leno swapped Arsenal for Fulham in 2022 and has been the first-choice goalkeeper under Marco Silva. He has kept one clean sheet and conceded eight goals from seven Premier League games this season.
The Germany international has captained Fulham this season and is thrilled to wear the armband.
“It’s always a special feeling to run into the stadium, because it’s always tingling everywhere. As captain, you’re naturally proud. It’s a privilege to play in front of so many spectators when the fans celebrate you at home,” Leno explained.
“Unfortunately, you sometimes lose the feeling of appreciating it. That’s quite normal in life. But when you think about it. I know that I’m living my dream and have turned my hobby into a career.”
“We play in front of thousands of people in the stadium and millions of TV viewers every week. That’s why: Every time you run in, you know exactly, now it’s prime time again and you’re living the dream.”
