Effenberg doubts Klopp's start after 0-1 defeat to Greece
Stefan Effenberg, former international player, expresses after Germany's 0-1 defeat to Greece doubts about Jürgen Klopp's start as the new DFB coach. In his t‑online column he calls the result the worst that could have happened at this early stage of Klopp's tenure.
Faded euphoria across the country
Effenberg writes that the appointment of Klopp as DFB coach sparked great anticipation across the country. The bitter defeat on Sunday evening, however, strongly dampened this euphoria and brought reality back: Germany is no longer a leading nation, but merely a follower in world football.
Lack of tactical concept against known style of play
The 58-year-old former professional criticises above all the way the German team approached the deep‑lying Greek formation. He stresses that the Greeks have been known for their defensive system for over 20 years, most recently European champions in 2004 under Otto Rehhagel.
Effenberg accuses both the German eleven and Klopp and his coaching staff of not having found a suitable recipe or solution for this well‑known style of play.
Klopp's record-breaking start as national coach with a point against the Netherlands
Weakness also in the game against the Netherlands
According to Effenberg, the subsequent duel against the Netherlands was also not convincing. He says the 1-1 draw was only possible through luck and the first game against the Netherlands could have been easily lost.
Goalkeeper Marc‑Andre ter Stegen, despite uncertainties, made several brilliant saves, so the result could not have been any worse.
Outlook and demands on Klopp
Effenberg admits that both Klopp and the players need time to find themselves, but describes the process as difficult. He warns that the public may forgive the coach more, but at the same time sets higher expectations for him.
Effenberg warns Germany will lose its place at the world top
The next opponent is Serbia, which awaits the DFB team on Thursday in the Nations League. Effenberg cautions that if there is no improvement, the tone towards Klopp could quickly become sharper.