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• Rudi Völler dismisses World Cup boycott discussions as futile

  Germany’s sporting director Rudi Völler has strongly dismissed suggestions of a boycott for the 2026 World Cup, arguing that political absences achieve nothing and harm the sport. ​Germany national team director Rudi Völler has dismissed calls for a boycott of the upcoming 2026 World Cup in North America. Speaking amid renewed political debates, Völler argued that such gestures are historically ineffective and serve only to penalize the athletes and fans. He stated: “A boycott achieves nothing… we saw that in the past and it was always the wrong way.” ​The legendary striker emphasized that football should remain a platform for dialogue rather than a tool for political isolation. Völler insists that Germany’s focus must remain on sporting excellence and engagement. He warned against repeating past mistakes, adding: “We have to go there, compete, and represent our values on the pitch… talking about not going is completely the wrong approach.”

• Leverkusen boss Hjulmand dismisses fatigue before Augsburg clash

  Bayer Leverkusen coach Kasper Hjulmand has rejected concerns of squad fatigue ahead of their fifth match in 14 days against Augsburg. Despite a packed schedule, Hjulmand insists, “We’re not tired, we love games,” as his team prepares for what he expects to be an intense encounter.

  Leverkusen holds a dominant historical record over Augsburg, who are struggling in 14th place under new manager Manuel Baum. With a potent attack and a strong head-to-head advantage, Leverkusen are clear favorites to continue their winning ways against their upcoming opponents in the Bundesliga.

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• Kompany praises Luis Díaz’s ‘chaotic creativity’ after Bayern victory

  Vincent Kompany lauded Luis Díaz’s “chaotic creativity” following his stellar performance, including a goal and assist, in Bayern Munich’s 3-1 win against FC St. Pauli, highlighting the winger’s unique impact on the team.

  According to a report from German football reporting, Bayern Munich manager Vincent Kompany has issued a strong warning to his squad, urging them not to get carried away by their success following a midweek defeat.

  Kompany’s side is set to face FC St. Pauli in the Bundesliga, looking to rebound from a 3-1 Champions League loss to Arsenal, their first defeat since the Club World Cup last summer.

  Despite this loss, Bayern remains at the summit of the Bundesliga, with ten wins and one draw in 11 matches.

  Speaking about his team’s mentality, Kompany emphasized the need for focus and humility, particularly after a run that has seen them reach 16 consecutive wins across all competitions.

  He stressed the importance of remaining grounded, regardless of results, stating:

  “I always tell my players, ‘When there’s hype, please don’t believe it, you’re not that good – and when you lose a game or you have a bad performance, don’t believe that you’re bad, you’re not that bad’ – that’s something I always keep with me.”

  The upcoming opponent, St. Pauli, is struggling, currently sitting in 17th place after losing their last eight Bundesliga fixtures.

  Bayern will welcome the return of winger Luis Diaz, who is expected to start after missing the Arsenal match due to a suspension. Diaz received a red card in the team’s 2-1 victory over Paris Saint-Germain.

  Since joining from Liverpool for €75 million, the Colombian has been in sensational form, being involved in 15 goals in his 15 starts for Bayern Munich in all competitions, including 10 goals and five assists.

• usmnt squad: robinson returns as pochettino calls up 26

  Tyler Adams is notably absent from the USMNT’s 26-player squad for friendlies against Ecuador and Australia, while Antonee Robinson returns after knee surgery.

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