The recent early exits of Germany from the World Cup have left many fans and experts stunned. In my opinion, the issue goes beyond just one tournament; it's a reflection of a deeper problem within German football. The lack of continuity and a clear playing style has plagued the national team for over a decade.
What many people don't realize is that Germany's success has historically been built on a solid foundation of defined player roles, established hierarchy, and a clear offensive and defensive strategy. This conviction has been missing, and it shows on the pitch. The team lacks control and confidence in their gameplay, failing to build attacks effectively and maintain possession.
One thing that immediately stands out is the team's inability to find their rhythm as a "Turniermannschaft" or "tournament team." This term, which once described Germany's ability to peak at the right time during tournaments, now seems like a distant memory. Instead, the team's performance deteriorated with each game, a result of abandoning promising strategies and failing to stick to a consistent approach.
For instance, the use of Deniz Undav as an impact substitute worked well, yet this strategy was abandoned against Paraguay. Personally, I believe Joshua Kimmich should have played in midfield, his natural position at Bayern Munich, and Florian Wirtz and Kai Havertz, two of Germany's best players, should have been utilized more effectively. Wirtz, in particular, could have thrived in a central role behind Havertz, but this consistency was lacking.
The constant experimentation with systems and formations by coach Julian Nagelsmann is a major concern. While he justifies it as his style, great teams like Spain and France stick to a consistent pattern, and their success lies in the execution. Football, in my view, should not be overcomplicated.
The changes made by Nagelsmann, especially against Ecuador in the final group match, lacked purpose and sent confusing messages to the team. Every rotation should have a clear strategic intent, and this was lacking.
However, there is a silver lining. The players' unity and support for each other in the face of failure is commendable. Antonio Rüdiger's praise for his rivals, Havertz's admiration for Undav, and Kimmich's defense of Sané and Nagelsmann show a sense of camaraderie. This foundation can be built upon.
I also refute the criticism that the players lack the right attitude. The disastrous performance in Russia in 2018 was an exception, and the current team is giving their all. Failure affects them deeply, as seen in Kimmich's fear of a deep slump after the Qatar elimination.
The current generation of "system players" who grew up in youth academies has a different perspective on football as a dynamic profession. Keeping up with the growing salaries, digital presence, and individualization is a challenge. This is where strong leadership is needed.
The constant reliance on the 2014 World Cup-winning players, like Manuel Neuer, provides short-term stability but signals a lack of faith in the current team. Argentina and France, with their established players like Messi and Mbappé, prove that it's possible to build a successful team without constantly looking back. Their coaches, Didier Deschamps and Lionel Scaloni, provide order and security.
The failures of three consecutive World Cup coaches - Löw, Flick, and Nagelsmann - should not be blamed solely on the players. Germany has talented individuals playing for top European clubs. Rüdiger at Real Madrid, Wirtz at Leverkusen, Havertz at Chelsea and Arsenal, and Musiala with world-class potential, all showcase the talent pool. Only France can rival Germany's talent.
The World Cup is a global sporting event, and a national team must represent its country's identity. In Bosnia and Herzegovina, fans celebrate their team because they see themselves reflected in it. Disrupting a team's development constantly makes it difficult for fans to connect and identify with the setup, leading to disappointment.
Reconnecting with Germany's footballing identity is crucial. We should embrace our unique culture and brand of football with conviction. Before discussing potential successors to Nagelsmann, we must first decide on our playing style and strategy. Are we Spain, Argentina, or France? No, we are Germany, and we must play to our strengths.
This reflection is a partnership between Philipp Lahm and Oliver Fritsch at Die Zeit, a German online magazine.
