Germany have recalled Thomas Mueller, a vocal leader with vast experience at major tournaments.
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Legendary Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger is usually a very soft-spoken man who does not look to make controversial remarks, even in the worst of circumstances. However, Wenger was free with his criticism while discussing Germany’s chances of winning the 2020 edition of the Euros. The 71-year-old stated that he was not “very confident” about the team’s prospects going into the tournament. It will certainly come as a shock to Germany fans who have seen the club struggle to make their presence felt in the 2018 edition of the World Cup, and were optimistic of a soaring comeback.
“I’m not very confident for Germany. I grew up at the border of Germany and I feel they have not the stability. They have lost the belief. The Germans, to be successful you need in the team a combination of hunger, belief, aggression, and that you’re capable to fight the doubt. I believe in Germany belief has gone,” he said as quoted by beIN Sports.
Here’s a detailed look at Germany’s strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats going into the tournament, which will further indicate whether Wenger was accurate with his statement.
1) World-Class Goalkeeper and Formidable No.6: Manuel Neur is considered one of the best goalkeepers on the planet, both with the ball at his feet and at keeping it out of the net. Neur was superb for Bayern Munich in the Bundesliga last season, which is an indication of his prowess. He further enjoys tournament-winning experience at the international level, which makes him all the more formidable going into the Euros.
Joshua Kimmich is arguably the best No.6 in world football currently. His ability to defend astutely, along with the capability to record assists on the back of precise passing and ice-cold composure make the German one to watch out for. Kimmich can further pull off the odd screamer, making him a game-changer.
2) Presence of game-changers: The likes of Thomas Mueller and Serge Gnabry are well capable of changing the game with one move, which is a massive advantage for Germany. Mueller is a vocal leader with vast experience at major tournaments. The 31-year-old never fails to transmit his winning mentality to his teammates.
1) Lack of reliable strikers: The presence of Miroslav Klose was a source of solace for Germany fans, considering his elite record for the national team. Klose could score on a consistent basis against the best of opposition. However, the presence of Timo Werner does not inspire the same confidence with Thomas Mueller not scoring as much in recent times. Kevin Volland is not a reliable name.
2) Poor defence: Germany is missing out on a solid backline with the departure of Philip Lahm leaving the national team in a spot of bother. The same reflected in a 6-0 thrashing against Spain as well as a 2-1 defeat against North Macedonia.
3) Lack of experience: The likes of Kai Havertz, Werner and Julian Brandt dont enjoy as much experience at the highest level, as necessary going into a premier tournament like Euro 2020. Its an area of concern considering the fine margins involved.
Kevin Volland will be eager to make his presence felt having smashed 18 goals in 40 matches in his first season at Monaco. Werner will further be looking to make a soaring comeback having struggled to score consistently at Chelsea.
The announcement of the departure of Joachim Low could result in the solidarity of the team getting affected going into the tournament. The national team is placed in a tough group, which may prove difficult to proceed from. Werner’s poor conversion rate might well come back to haunt the national team.
