Matthias Ginter reflects on heartbreaking World Cup omission after Europa League final

Matthias Ginter, defender for SC Freiburg, expressed his disappointment over missing Germany’s World Cup squad after being informed by coach Julian Nagelsmann shortly after Freiburg's 3-0 loss to Aston Villa in the Europa League final. Ginter, who had a strong season with five goals and five assists, described the 12-hour gap between the final and the bad news as one of the most challenging moments of his career. Following his omission, Ginter discussed the emotional toll of not participating in the World Cup, which he watched from home for the first time since 2010. He acknowledged that as he nears 34, a return to international football may be unlikely but expressed a desire to continue improving at Freiburg.

• 9:50 AMYahoo Sports — Freiburg defender Matthias Ginter opens up on the most ‘heartbreaking 12 hours’ of his career