Oliver Baumann reveals Julian Nagelsmann apology over World Cup axe

Hoffenheim goalkeeper Oliver Baumann has opened up about a direct conversation with former Germany head coach Julian Nagelsmann. The manager personally apologised to the player for stripping him of his starting spot immediately before the World Cup.

Baumann had been the primary choice throughout the qualifiers and warm-up matches, only to be replaced by Manuel Neuer following the veteran's return from international retirement. While Baumann admitted the decision was difficult to accept, he focused on supporting the team from the bench.

«He was sorry about how everything turned out in the end. I spoke with Julian ten days ago. We had already agreed to talk on the phone. Then we talked for almost an hour. I told him everything that was important to me», — noted Oliver Baumann.

Following Germany's early exit from the tournament, Nagelsmann has since been replaced by Jurgen Klopp. Meanwhile, Neuer has officially confirmed the end of his international career, clearing the way for a new generation of goalkeepers.

Baumann is now competing for the starting role under Klopp. The battle for the number one shirt is expected to resume as Germany prepares for their first UEFA Nations League match against the Netherlands on September 24.