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Germany manager Flick sets target for Qatar 2022: semifinals at least
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Hansi Flick, manager of Germany, talks in an interview before the European Qualifier game for 2022 World Cup against Iceland in Reykjavik, Iceland, September 8, 2021. /CFP

Hansi Flick, manager of Germany, talks in an interview before the European Qualifier game for 2022 World Cup against Iceland in Reykjavik, Iceland, September 8, 2021. /CFP

Hansi Flick, manager of the German football national team, revealed his goal at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar: reaching the 'semifinals atleast.'

"We want to get back to where we once were, to the top of the world, to the top of the world," said Flick in an interview with German football magazine "Kicker."

That's quite a bold goal considering their poor performance at the UEFA European Championship – Germany were knocked out by England 2-0 in the Round of 16 competitions.

Flick (R) talks to midfielder Serge Gnabry in the European Qualifier game for 2022 World Cup against Iceland in Reykjavik, September 8, 2021. /CFP

Flick (R) talks to midfielder Serge Gnabry in the European Qualifier game for 2022 World Cup against Iceland in Reykjavik, September 8, 2021. /CFP

Of course, the team's manager was Joachim Loew during Euro 2020, after which Flick took over. He was a successful manager coaching Bayern Munich, winning two Bundesliga championships and one UEFA Champions League title. His team's playstyle trying to press the opponents all over the pitch fits today's industrialized, efficiency-chasing football very well.

"I am fond of possession football, but behind every action must stand the intention to create chances and score goals," said the 56-year-old manager. "We want to count on a highly flexible game up front."

Moreover, Germany's incredible roster on paper gives Flick confidence for next year's World Cup. Marco Reus of Borussia Dortmund, Manuel Neuer, Thomas Muller, Serge Gnabry, Leroy Sane of Bayern Munich and Timo Werner, Kai Havertz of Chelsea, are all playing key roles in the world's best football clubs.

Flick (L) talks to Leroy Sane during practice in Stuttgart, Germany, August 30, 2021. /CFP

Flick (L) talks to Leroy Sane during practice in Stuttgart, Germany, August 30, 2021. /CFP

"We can rely on at least two top-class performers in every position," added Flick.

Sane may be Germany's key to taking back the old glories. The 25-year-old has been doing better and better in Bayern this season. So far he has already contributed three goals and five assists in Bundesliga and the Champions League.

"I think it has clicked with Leroy," said Flick. "It is important to give him time. He needs to feel everyone's trust. He seems to be floating over the pitch as he has outstanding physical skills, and we see what he is capable of as his confidence returns."

Germany are playing against Romania in the World Cup qualifier game on Friday.

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