Germany goalkeeper Oliver Baumann revealed that he had a clarifying phone call with former Germany coach Nagelsmann after the World Cup.

Baumann said: "We talked for almost an hour, and I told him all the important things I wanted to say. The whole process was not emotional at all, nor was it condescending or preachy. We just talked openly about different topics." Baumann concluded: "He was really sorry about how things ended up."

How did that conversation come about, and how did Baumann deal with the painful omission off the field? The goalkeeper admitted that he was mainly struggling with himself at the time and had discussed the topic repeatedly with his wife. Friends and acquaintances kept asking about the situation, bringing it up again and again, but he didn't feel bad. Shortly after the World Cup, he and Nagelsmann also contacted each other via text message, and then they agreed to find a time to talk on the phone.

Despite the sudden setback before the major tournament, the 36-year-old goalkeeper handled it in a very professional manner: "This matter has been dealt with and processed. My teammates and everyone here made it easier for me to do that, but that period was sometimes not easy and also very energy-consuming. But I did very well – also because I wanted to – I provided as much energy as possible to the team and my teammates. I feel that, at least on my part, the foundation for success has been laid, and success should not have been hindered."

Now the German team is entering a new era under the new coach Klopp. Baumann gave a clear signal of expectation when talking about his opportunities under the famous coach: "I look forward to everything that will happen in the future and also to new tasks. So far, we have not had any contact, but nothing will change for me personally. I will be here, waiting for him to contact me, and I look forward to what will happen next."

Baumann also remains optimistic about the upcoming European Championship: "Our country has a lot of talent and is very strong. We have a top coach, and now it remains to be seen how this team will integrate."

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