German state broadcaster ARD ran the shocking poll, which found that 21% of 1,304 randomly selected participants would ‘prefer it if more players with white skin were playing for Germany.’
Bayern Munich and Germany star Joshua Kimmich previously described the survey as ‘absolutely racist’ and said it was ‘madness for a public broadcaster to ask such a question.’
Nagelsmann, who is preparing his squad for their home tournament of Euro 2024, added his condemnation on Sunday when asked about the matter in a press conference.
‘I was shocked that such questions are asked and people actually answer. It is racist … I feel that we need to wake up,’ the 36-year-old said.
Josh responded really well, with a very clear and thought-out statement. I see this in exactly the same way. This question is insane.
‘There are people in Europe who’ve had to flee because of war, economic factors, environmental disasters, people who simply want to be taken in. We have to ask what are we doing at the moment?
‘We in Germany are doing very, very well, and when we say something like that, I think it’s crazy how we turn a blind eye and simply block out such things.
‘I always find it bizarre that we all go on vacation to get to know other cultures and then other cultures come here and we complain about it. It’s bizarre. So, I can’t go on vacation then, I always have to stay where I am.’
ARD claim that a reporter working on a documentary on football and diversity was repeatedly confronted with statements about the makeup of the team during its production.
The poll was then commissioned so as to have gaugeable facts on the matter.
‘We’re playing a European Championship for everyone in the country,’ Nagelsmann added.
‘And anyone who can play top football is invited to be a national player and give their all for their country. And that’s what we’re doing.
‘And I hope I never have to read about such a crap survey again.’
The whole debacle comes after Adidas removed the number 44 from Germany’s shirt due to concerns over Nazi symbolism, as it bared a resemblance to SS.
Hosts Germany kick-off Euro 2024 against Scotland on 14 June.
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