Germany coach explains reasons behind Milan defender Thiaw’s call-up

By Euan Burns -

Germany head coach Hansi Flick has explained the reasons behind handing AC Milan defender Malick Thiaw his first senior call-up.

Speaking at his press conference ahead of their first match of the international break (via Milan News), the former Bayern Munich coach was asked about his decision to take Thiaw.

The young defender has never played for the senior Germany side and has only been called up following his sudden inclusion in the team by Stefano Pioli in 2023, a chance that he has grabbed very well.

Following Germany’s disappointing performance in the 2022 World Cup where they went out in the group stage, the coach has begun looking for lesser-known and less experienced players that can play a role in the team, hence the call-up for Thiaw.

“It is important for us to present a good team for the European Championship at home, and for this we need alternatives. We have to look for alternatives and give them time to grow,” Flick explained.

Thiaw joined Milan from FC Schalke 04 towards the end of the summer transfer window in 2022 and had a slow start to his time in Italy, as was to be expected.

Tags AC Milan Hansi Flick Malick Thiaw
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