Roman Mähglich: Unusual ways to the national team debut in Austria

Roman Mähglich: Unusual ways to the national team debut in Austria

The way in which the DFB announced the nominations of its players for the upcoming home European Championships 2024 has caused enthusiasm for many football fans. Instead of the usual telephone invitations that traditionally address team bosses to the players, a creative PR GAG was launched. The names of the players who made it into the selection were announced on various platforms of influencers on social media and in a popular football podcast. Such new approaches look back on the rather unspectacular nominations of the past, which were mostly characterized by simple telephone calls.

One of the interesting stories that come from the past of Austrian football is that of Roman Mähglich, a former player who made his debut for the national team over 30 years ago. His career began as a player for Sturm Graz, where he celebrated many successes, including several cup victories and championship titles. Despite his success, it was often active in the background and little in the spotlight when you consider that he once confronted the famous David Beckham with a humorous remark in a Champions League game.

The unforgettable debut

unexpectedly got the chance to play for the Austrian national team. During a game against Wacker Vienna, he was observed by team boss Ernst Happel, who offered a surprise a day later, on August 30, 1992: it was quickly appointed to the national team, which he might not be fully aware of at this height. He only learned about his convocation shortly after the final when Happel informed him that he should come to the national team's training the next day. This feeling of being selected by such a renowned trainer was overwhelming for the player at that time.

This is how he got on his way to the training camp in Upper Austria, he had little time to prepare. At the first meeting with Happel, whose health was already recognizable at this point, a short, memorable remark was changed. Maustus felt honored, even if Happel was known as little talkative. The following moment, when his first A-international match was played at the Gugl in Linz, remained unforgettable for him. It was the only time that he played under Happel, since the coach died a short time later.

career and memories

After Mähnlich's first appearance for the national team, he was appointed back to the U21. It should take until 1997 to be called back to the national team, and this was followed by participation in the 1998 World Cup in France under the direction of Herbert Prohaska. This time is considered a great success in his career, even if the team did not reach the round of 16. His joy about participating in a World Cup prevailed over the disappointment about leaving.

years after his active football career, there is a down -to -earth character that carries many great memories of his time in football. In his opinion, the way players are called into the national team today shows a positive development in football and has the potential to strengthen the relationship between fans and players.

For detailed information on the current situation and former players, become .