In a devastating blow to Germany's Euro 2024 preparations, star winger Serge Gnabry was forced off with a serious hamstring injury during Tuesday's international friendly against Northern Ireland in Cologne.
The Bayern Munich attacker, a key component in manager Julian Nagelsmann's plans, pulled up sharply and signalled for assistance just minutes after coming on as a second-half substitute. The severity of the injury was immediately apparent as Gnabry punched the turf in frustration before being helped from the pitch by medical staff.
This injury crisis couldn't have come at a worse time for Die Mannschaft, with their opening European Championship fixture against Scotland just over a week away. Gnabry's potential absence leaves a significant void in Germany's attacking options, removing a player renowned for his pace, creativity, and big-game experience.
Despite the setback, the hosts secured a comfortable 2-0 victory. Goals from Niclas Füllkrug and an own goal from Northern Ireland's Marc McNulty sealed the win in what was Germany's final tune-up match before the tournament.
Manager Julian Nagelsmann now faces a major selection headache. 'We have to wait for the diagnosis, but it doesn't look good,' a visibly concerned Nagelsmann stated in his post-match press conference. 'Serge felt a sharp pain in his hamstring. It's a bitter blow for him and for us so close to the tournament.'
The German football association is expected to provide a full medical update following scans, but initial reports suggest Gnabry is highly unlikely to feature in the group stages, throwing his entire tournament into doubt.
This injury adds to a growing list of fitness concerns for top European nations just days before Euro 2024 kicks off in Munich on June 14th. All eyes will now be on Nagelsmann's potential replacements, with the likes of Florian Wirtz, Jamal Musiala, and Kai Havertz expected to shoulder more attacking responsibility.
