Nations League
Klopp: Relegation from the Nations League costs Germany Euro spot
While the German national team had already to accept a 1-1 draw against the Netherlands and a 0-1 home defeat to Greece at the start of the Klopp era, the question arises as to what consequences a possible relegation from the Nations League could have for the Euro qualification.
The results, documented by Alexander Hassenstein/GettyImages, have so far defined the team. The 1-1 against the Netherlands came first, followed by the disappointing 0-1 home loss to Greece.
Jürgen Klopp emphasized that it was initially not just about the raw results, but the expectations were higher. Despite his words, the disappointment over the outcomes remained.
After two of six matchdays, Germany occupies the second-to-last place in its Nations League group. This ranking is the result of the two mentioned matches.
Impact on Euro qualification
Leaving the Nations League has direct consequences for the Euro qualification, which will be drawn in December. The twelve best nations of Nations League A are automatically placed in Pot 1, which theoretically means easier qualification groups.
Schweinsteiger says Germany have sunk into mediocrity under Klopp
Additionally, the eight quarter-finalists receive a four‑team group in the Euro qualifiers, while the remaining nations fight for the ticket in five‑team groups.
Consequences of a possible relegation
A relegation from the Nations League would presumably disadvantage Germany in the Euro qualifiers, because the team would no longer be among the top‑12 of League A. However, it would not be a disaster like a group‑stage exit at a European Championship.
The Nations League remains, nonetheless, a replacement for friendly matches and is not decisive enough to determine the overall success of the German national team.
Klopp under pressure after Germany's defeat to Greece
Thus it becomes clear that despite poor results, the consequences of a relegation are limited, but relevant for the qualification draw.