Germany boss has already made feelings clear on Scotland ahead of Euro 2024 opener

Julian Nagelsmann refuses to underestimate Scotland ahead of Germany's Euro 2024 opener.

Germany kick off the tournament by taking on The Tartan Army at the Allianz Arena on Friday night. Die Mannschaft are one of the favourites to win the Euros - the first competition they have hosted since the 2006 World Cup - while Scotland have never progressed to the knockout stages of an international tournament.

Germany manager Nagelsmann admitted after the draw was made in December that his side had avoided one of the tougher groups, like the dreaded ‘Group B’. But he was under no impression that facing Steve Clarke’s side was a straightforward task.

The former Bayern Munich boss said: "This is not a group of death, but there are no really bad opponents. This is an interesting group in which we obviously want to assert ourselves.”

Voicing his thoughts on Germany’s chances, he also stated: “It's only the second time Germany has hosted a European Championship. For the players, and for myself as a manager, to take part in a tournament on home soil is a unique opportunity. There is pressure involved, but more so joy. If we can see that joy on the pitch, then we will have a great tournament."

Meanwhile, Clarke wants his Scotland stars to remain laser-focused ahead of their monumental challenge amid all the distractions that come with facing the hosts, such as the opening ceremony.

He told the BBC Scotland post-draw show: “It's good, you know when you're up against it. It's nice to be in the tournament and it's nice to be involved in that first game and hopefully, we can start the tournament off with a good match.”

Clarke added: "Germany are going to be very good. It's their home tournament and they won't want to let anyone down. When