“Donald Trump makes us feel not only German but also European”
Mounting concerns ahead of kick off
With the World Cup returning to North America for the first time in more than three decades, anticipation around the tournament is growing. However, developments away from the pitch are increasingly dominating discussion among supporters, players and officials.
According to GiveMeSport, rising ticket prices have already caused frustration among fans planning to attend matches across the three host nations. At the same time, broader concerns have emerged around safety and immigration policy in the United States.
Those worries intensified following the fatal shootings of Renee Good and Alex Pretti by Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents. The inclusion of several countries on United States travel ban lists has further raised questions about how accessible the tournament will be for visiting supporters and teams.
Trump rhetoric adds diplomatic strain
Political tension has also been heightened by recent statements from United States President Donald Trump. According to international reporting from late 2025, Trump threatened to withdraw American support for Ukraine amid its ongoing war with Russia.
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He has also renewed calls for the United States to take control of Greenland, an autonomous territory of Denmark. After several European governments publicly backed Denmark, Trump reportedly sent a warning message to Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store, increasing diplomatic unease across Europe.
Goretzka addresses the political backdrop
Against this backdrop, Bayern Munich midfielder Leon Goretzka has become one of the first players from a qualified nation to comment publicly on the situation.
According to Die Zeit, the Germany international acknowledged the political debate surrounding the World Cup but said he still expects the tournament to be a positive moment for football in North America.
He said, "Of course, I am aware of the political debates. I still expect it to be a great tournament, it will promote football there, and show many people want an incredibly exciting game.
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"Donald Trump makes us feel not only German but also European."
Germany debate boycott talk
Goretzka’s comments come as debate continues in Germany over whether the national team should consider boycotting the 2026 finals.
According to German media reports, St Pauli president Oke Gottlich previously suggested such a move, referencing the United States led boycott of the 1980 Olympic Games in protest at the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan.
The German Football Association later dismissed the idea as misguided. Goretzka, however, sought to shift attention back to events on the pitch.
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"In the most important game in the world, we are still ahead of all other continents," he said. "Far from being left behind, Europe will show everyone what it is made of on the pitch."
Football remains the central objective
Germany have already secured qualification for the tournament and have been drawn in Group E alongside Curacao, Ivory Coast and Ecuador. Their opening match is scheduled for June 14.
While political debate continues around the hosts, players such as Goretzka appear determined to ensure that football, rather than diplomacy, becomes the defining story once the World Cup begins.
Sources: GiveMeSport
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