Boateng left out of Germany squad
Jerome Boateng has been left out of Germany's squad for the upcoming games against Russia and the Netherlands.
Bayern München's Jerome Boateng has not been included in Germany coach Joachim Löw's squad for the upcoming fixtures against Russia (November 15) and the Netherlands (November 19).
According to the Bayern centre-back, he has agreed with Germany coach Joachim Löw to stay in München to recharge his batteries instead.
"After a very good and trusting conversation with the national team coach, we agreed that I get a break from the two upcoming international games after a busy year, so I can work on my fitness in München. I wish my team all the best for the games against Russia and the Netherlands. Thanks to the national team coach," the Bayern defender stated on Twitter.
Löw says Boateng's break can give the younger players at his position a chance to show what they can do.
"I'm convinced that a break will be good for him. I also told him that we have many alternatives in his position, especially younger players. Of course, they have to prove that they can reach the level of Jerome," Löw told DFB.de.
At a press conference today, Bayern coach Niko Kovac also commented on the decision to leave Boateng out of the squad.
"That is the decision of the Germany coach. That Jerome isn't there is a novelty. But that doesn't mean that he will not be back in the future. That means he can stay and train with us during the international break. I don't think this is the end of Jerome's national team career," the Bayern coach said according to Sky.
Update: Check out Germany's full squad here.