Alfred Gíslason Sees No Reason Why Germany Cannot Win Handball WC
Sixty-nine days before the home tournament begins, German handball national coach Alfred Gíslason visited the bild.de office in Berlin alongside his coaching staff to discuss the upcoming games.
The visit came just one day after a 42-32 European Championship qualifying victory against Belgium, prompting the 67-year-old coach to address questions about the team’s prospects at the tournament.
When asked if there is any reason why Germany should not win the World Championship, Gíslason offered a direct assessment.
Nein! Wir müssen nur sehr gut spielen. Die Dänen sind immer Favoriten, aber auch die müssen es genau wie wir ins Finale schaffen. Der Weg ist hart, aber die Mannschaft wächst von Jahr zu Jahr.
That response translates to a firm “No! We just have to play very well. The Danes are always favorites, but they, just like us, have to make it to the final. The path is hard, but the team grows from year to year,” according to bild.de.
Accompanying Gíslason at the publisher’s conference room were co-trainer Erik Wudtke, goalkeeper trainer Mattias Andersson, team manager Benjamin Chatton, and DHB press chief Tim Oliver Kalle.
Comparing the upcoming event to the 2007 winter fairy tale tournament, Gíslason noted that the previous milestone ushered in a new era for the sport. He expressed confidence that the upcoming championship will advance further in organization.
Interest in the event has already translated into strong ticket demand, with arenas fully sold out. Gíslason remarked to bild.de that friends from a decade ago are suddenly calling to request semifinal tickets.
When discussing the core lineup of the squad, Gíslason pointed to goalkeeper Andi Wolff, noting his stability over recent years. Captain Johannes Golla and Julian Köster were also highlighted as crucial figures who carry significant responsibility at both ends of the court.
Gíslason stated that media reports linking top stars such as Wolff, Golla, and David Späth to potential club transfers have not disrupted the team.
According to bild.de, the coach indicated that he does not interfere in such matters and doubts the accuracy of all the circulating rumors.