International media reviews of the DFB team: praise, criticism and status as a football nation
Kicker interviewed international journalists - the answers ranged from euphoria to harsh reality. What that says about Germany's football.
Kicker interviewed international journalists - the answers ranged from euphoria to harsh reality. What that says about Germany's football.
The DFB team is under the microscope internationally. Kicker asked media representatives from Europe, South America and Asia about their perception of the German national team - with some surprising results. The answers vary, but a pattern is emerging: While some journalists continue to see Germany as a football superpower, others emphasize the significant decline in performance in recent years.
The assessment of the last major tournaments is particularly critical. A British colleague described the DFB team as "unpredictable and often disappointing", while an Argentinian reporter highlighted the team's defensive weakness. A French journalist, on the other hand, praised the tactical flexibility under Hansi Flick, but admitted that the results were not always convincing.
The kicker survey also shows that international perception depends heavily on the respective perspective. While European media often measure the DFB team by historical standards, non-European colleagues still sometimes see Germany as a respectable opponent - albeit with clear weaknesses. A Japanese reporter emphasized that despite the current problems, the German team is still considered a "dangerous opponent", even if it no longer dominates.
The loss of one's former identity weighs more heavily than any single game result. Where the DFB team was once defined by physical dominance and an almost military discipline, there is now a tactical disorientation that leaves even experts perplexed. On closer inspection, the praise for the flexibility under Hansi Flick often turns out to be a euphemism for the lack of a clear game plan.
When a team constantly adapts without having its own core, it becomes predictable in its unpredictability. The international criticism hits the nerve: Germany is trying to emulate other football models instead of breathing new life into its own strengths. At the same time, the survey reveals how much the global football hierarchy has faltered.
“Great Power” status is not a constant, but a currency that must be earned through victories. The fact that Asian media still see Germany as a benchmark shows historical respect, not the current level of play. In South America and Europe, however, fear of the German team has disappeared - replaced by the realization that the technical lead has been caught up.
The competition has not only caught up, it is setting new standards. For the DFB this means: the time when the jersey alone inspired fear and respect is finally over. Reactions to the survey are mixed.
Some German journalists are surprised by the harsh criticism, others see the results as confirmation of the necessary change in German football. A spokesman for the DFB referred to the “challenges of the modern world of football” and emphasized that the team is continuing to work on its development. What's next?
The DFB team faces a crucial friendly match against the Netherlands at the end of March. If the team convinces there, it could improve international perception in the short term. In the long term, however, it will depend on whether the DFB's new talents - such as Jamal Musiala or Florian Wirtz - make the hoped-for leap and lead the team back to its old strength. Read at kicker DFB-Elf
The international media response to the DFB team is more than just a mood barometer - it reflects Germany's current status as a football nation. The criticism of the last tournaments and the different ratings show that the team is no longer undisputed at the top. At the same time, the survey offers an opportunity for self-reflection: Where does Germany still shine and where does it need to be improved? The answers could increase the pressure on the DFB, but also pave the way for a realignment.
kicker DFB-Elfkicker.de1 Jul, 16:23de-de
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