Bayern Munich midfielder says the United States president’s comments make him feel more German and European
As the countdown to the 2026 World Cup begins, the tournament is already being framed by forces far beyond football. Set to take place across the United States, Canada and Mexico, the next global showpiece arrives amid rising political tension between Europe and the US.
Bayern Munich and Germany midfielder Leon Goretzka feels the recent comments made by Donald Trump will motivate European nations this summer.
Goretzka, long known as one of German football’s most socially engaged figures, admitted that speaking out on issues such as anti-racism, diversity and climate protection has become increasingly difficult for athletes.
“Unfortunately, these issues are generally on the defensive,” he said in an interview with ZEIT. “If you speak out offensively as an athlete, you take a risk. You have to win, otherwise your commitment backfires, is deliberately misunderstood or misrepresented.”
That tension now spills into the footballing world as the World Cup heads to North America, and into a political climate shaped by US President Donald Trump’s recent rhetoric towards Europe.
Trump has described the continent as “weak” and “decaying”, and his pursuit of taking Greenland by force have reignited transatlantic unease.
Football, politics and a European response
Despite that backdrop, Goretzka remains optimistic about the tournament itself. He believes the World Cup can still serve as a cultural bridge, even when politics appear increasingly divisive.
“I am aware of the political debates,” he said. “Nevertheless, I assume that it will be a great tournament. The world will be visiting America. The tournament will promote football there and convince many people that it is an incredibly exciting game.”
Goretzka even believes that Trump’s recent attitude towards the old continent will have an unintended positive effect on European unity.
“Donald Trump makes us feel not only German, but also European,” Goretzka explained. “Others have caught up, but in the most important game in the world, we are still ahead of all other continents.”
Rather than seeing Europe as a fading force, the 29-year-old views the World Cup as an opportunity for the continent to reassert itself where it still holds undeniable authority: on the pitch.
“Far from being left behind, Europe will show everyone what it’s made of,” he added.
As much as many call for the separation of sports and politics, it is almost unavoidable ahead of major tournaments like the World Cup. Trump’s words – for better or for worse – will never cease to stir up debate, and football is no different, with now yet another layer of interest added to the upcoming tournament