'We Must Enjoy This Pressure' - Kroos Motivates Germany For Euro 2024

Toni Kroos has called on Germany to embrace the unique pressure of hosting Euro 2024, as Julian Nagelsmann's squad prepares to kick off the tournament on Friday. The German Football Association (DFB) will host their first major international event since the 2006 World Cup, where they finished third after losing to Italy in the semi-finals.

Germany will begin their campaign against Scotland at Munich Football Arena on Friday. They will also face Hungary and Switzerland in Group A. Kroos, who plans to retire after the tournament, urged his teammates to relish the honour of playing in their home country.

"At every tournament on home soil, there is pressure. It is even more special," the midfielder told reporters during a press conference. "We know the pressure is there; we don't want to brush it aside, but we have to enjoy this pressure."

Germany aims for better results in major tournaments after consecutive World Cup group-stage exits and a round of 16 defeat by England at Euro 2020. Nagelsmann's team has shown inconsistent form leading up to Euro 2024, with a goalless draw against Ukraine and a narrow 2-1 victory over Greece in their final warm-up matches.

Kroos acknowledged the need for improvement but believes the team has the perfect stage to address their form issues. "You know what is possible when you see the squad quality we have," he added. "But we also see that during some phases in matches, there is room for improvement."

Key Quotes and Insights

Kroos emphasised the importance of consistency: "There is no better opportunity to show in a tournament that we can play well. That is the task. If we want to play a good role, then it is inevitable that we must minimise these phases when we don't play well as a team."

He also warned about the competition: "There are teams coming [in the tournament] that will punish us, and then the tournament is over."

As Germany prepares to host Euro 2024, Kroos' call for embracing pressure and improving performance resonates strongly. The team faces significant challenges but also has an opportunity to shine on home soil.