In and out of the Bundesliga. Into the Euro squad. Despite Cologne’s recent struggles, captain Florian Kainz has been chosen for the Euro 2024 preliminary squad for Austria. On the other hand, his Cologne teammate Dejan Ljubicic did not make the cut after their team’s 1-4 loss to Heidenheim, which led to their relegation to the second division.
Kainz, who has been hoping to represent his country in the Euros, was left devastated by the news. Ljubicic, on the other hand, saw his chances diminish after a disappointing season with Cologne. The final decision on the squad composition will be announced on June 7, with Rangnick having to decide between a larger roster of field players or incorporating more goalkeepers.
Although Kainz’s inclusion in the preliminary squad is a positive development, his future with Cologne remains uncertain following their relegation. Both Kainz and Ljubicic could potentially leave the club after the Euros this summer. Despite the challenges faced, Kainz will continue to strive for a spot in the final Euro squad, while Ljubicic faces the disappointment of missing out on the opportunity to represent Austria on the international stage.