Emre Can will replace Alexander Pavlovich at Euro 2024

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By Martin Graham | 12th Jun 2024The DFB has confirmed that Emre Can will be called up to the German national team for Euro 2024, replacing Aleksandar Pavlovic, who will miss the tournament due to illness.

Pavlovic out due to tonsillitisAccording to Bild, Bayern Munich midfielder Aleksander Pavlovic will miss the competition because of tonsillitis, an ailment he has been suffering from for the past few days. It was initially reported that Pavlovic would undergo surgery after the Euros, but his condition has now ruled him out of the tournament altogether.

Emre Can joins the squadBorussia Dortmund’s Emre Can has been chosen to take Pavlovic’s place. The Dortmund captain is set to join the squad today in preparation for Germany’s opening game against Scotland in Munich on Friday. Julian Nagelsmann explained the decision: “We want another six in the squad and have therefore decided to nominate Emre Can. He immediately expressed his enthusiasm and willingness to join the team. We wanted to have another player in the squad who has played many games, who knows how to deal with the pressure. He can fulfil the profile well that we can use now.”

Other midfield options consideredWhile Nagelsmann’s decision to call up Can is based on the need for a specific type of player, there were other midfielders who could have been considered. Gladbach’s Rocco Reitz, who has spent the last two weeks training with the senior team, was one potential candidate. Additionally, Angelo Stiller, Anton Stach, and even Leon Goretzka have had stronger seasons than Can. Nonetheless, Nagelsmann opted for Can, emphasizing the necessity for a player with extensive experience and the ability to handle pressure, qualities that Can embodies.

Martin Graham is an MFF sports writer