A general disillusionment with the national team, a squad in transition, and a new charismatic coach ahead of a home tournament, all bring back memories of Germany in 2006.

Back then, Jurgen Klinsmann led Die Mannschaft—literally "The Team"—in the World Cup. Now, Julian Nagelsmann takes charge for Euro 2024.

In 2006, a youthful German side delighted the nation with an unexpected run to the semifinals. In 2024, a similar performance is hoped for but not necessarily expected.

The three-time UEFA European Championship winners have had a rough few years, failing to win a knockout match in a major tournament since Euro 2016.

Germany’s second consecutive group stage exit at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, and a subsequent 4-1 loss to Japan in September, led to Hansi Flick becoming the first Germany manager to be sacked.

Friendly fire

Germany has only won five of their 13 matches since Qatar. Yet, the last two victories in the March international window have sparked optimism ahead of Euro 2024.

The general rule of international football is to not give much credence to friendly matches. However, given how demoralized German fans have been in recent years, their jubilation at victories over France (2-0) and the Netherlands (2-1) is understandable.

But the excitement isn't entirely baseless.

After some experimentation in his initial four matches, Nagelsmann found success with a 4-2-3-1 formation in the two friendlies, resulting in a cohesive and dynamic performance.

The trio of Jamal Musiala, Ilkay Gundogan, and Florian Wirtz combined with Kai Havertz in midfield brought renewed energy to the attack, while Jonathan Tah and Antonio Rudiger strengthened the defense.

Nagelsmann had tested several players in the wing-back position, including Havertz, Niklas Sule, Robin Gosens, Benjamin Henrichs, and Tah. Eventually, he found his ideal pairing with Joshua Kimmich and Stuttgart’s Maximilian Mittelstaedt. Mittelstaedt made his debut against France and scored his first international goal against the Netherlands three days later.

Kroos to the rescue

Central to Germany’s new system is superstar Toni Kroos.

Coaxed out of retirement, the Real Madrid midfielder made an immediate impact, setting up Wirtz’s opener against France with one of his signature passes just seven seconds into his return.

Kroos’s presence not only stabilizes the team but also allows Gundogan to play a more advanced role, similar to his Manchester City days where he thrived.

Seeking to build on the momentum of the March friendlies, Nagelsmann has extended his contract until after the 2026 World Cup.

“This decision is from the heart,” said Nagelsmann. “It is an immense honor to coach the national team and collaborate with the country’s best players. Through passionate and successful performances, we have the chance to inspire an entire nation.”

The 36-year-old manager has made bold selections for the Euros, leaving out notable players like Mats Hummels and Bayern Munich’s Leon Goretzka. However, the squad is filled with players in top form.

Havertz and Wirtz had standout seasons for Arsenal and Bayer Leverkusen, respectively. Kroos has shown vintage performances for Real Madrid, and Rudiger has solidified his status as one of the world’s elite defenders this season.

The home advantage could be crucial for Germany. Had they not automatically qualified as hosts, qualification might have been a challenge.

Support from local fans will be a key factor for success. In a challenging group featuring Switzerland, Scotland, and Hungary, a strong start is essential for gaining momentum.

Much like the 2006 World Cup hosted by Germany, the Euros could mark a new era for the national team on home ground. Alternatively, a poor performance could trigger a major squad overhaul as they prepare for the 2026 World Cup campaign.

Germany Euro 2024 squad:

Captain: Ilkay Gundogan

Goalkeepers: Oliver Baumann (TSG Hoffenheim), Manuel Neuer (Bayern Munich), Marc-Andre ter Stegen (Barcelona)

Defenders: Waldemar Anton (VfB Stuttgart), Benjamin Henrichs (RB Leipzig), Joshua Kimmich (Bayern Munich), Robin Koch (Eintracht Frankfurt), Maximilian Mittelstadt (VfB Stuttgart), David Raum (RB Leipzig), Antonio Rudiger (Real Madrid), Nico Schlotterbeck (Borussia Dortmund), Jonathan Tah (Bayer Leverkusen)

Midfielders: Robert Andrich (Bayer Leverkusen), Chris Fuhrich (VfB Stuttgart), Pascal Gross (Brighton & Hove Albion), Ilkay Gundogan (Barcelona), Toni Kroos (Real Madrid), Jamal Musiala (Bayern Munich), Aleksandar Pavlovic (Bayern Munich), Leroy Sane (Bayern Munich), Florian Wirtz (Bayer Leverkusen)

Forwards: Maximilian Beier (TSG Hoffenheim), Niclas Fullkrug (Borussia Dortmund), Kai Havertz (Arsenal), Thomas Muller (Bayern Munich), Deniz Undav (VfB Stuttgart)

You can follow the action on Al Jazeera’s dedicated Euro 2024 tournament page with all the match buildup and live text commentary, and stay up to date with group standings and real-time match results & schedules.