Following the German national team’s World Cup exit, criticism of Julian Nagelsmann shows no signs of abating. Now, Bayern legend Jean-Marie Pfaff has also spoken out clearly about the former national team coach.
The elimination in the World Cup round of 32 against Paraguay has far-reaching consequences for the DFB. Julian Nagelsmann was forced to step down as national team coach, and Jürgen Klopp is considered the likely successor.
Now, with Jean-Marie Pfaff, an icon of FC Bayern has also spoken out critically about the 38-year-old’s tenure. The former world-class goalkeeper fundamentally believes Nagelsmann was the wrong man for the DFB bench.
In an interview with ran, the Belgian said: “I think Nagelsmann is a nice person, but I wouldn’t have given him that much responsibility. Just because you learned soccer in school doesn’t mean you’re a good coach for a national team. You also need a certain amount of experience and have to project a certain presence.”
Pfaff Satisfied with DFB’s Decision to Choose Klopp
Looking ahead to Jürgen Klopp’s likely imminent appointment, however, Pfaff expressed his conviction: “When I think back to the past—Franz Beckenbauer, Berti Vogts—they had that charisma. There’s currently no one better for Germany than Jürgen Klopp, if he really wants to do this. He’s achieved a lot with Borussia Dortmund and Liverpool FC; he can lead Germany back to success.”
Pfaff is also critical of Nagelsmann’s decision to permanently deploy Joshua Kimmich as a right back. “A national team has to stand for something. In the Netherlands, Johan Cruyff established a system, and it worked. Germany stood for something for a long time. What do these two teams stand for today? With all due respect, why is Joshua Kimmich playing right back? Where did that come from? He’s a defensive midfielder. Bring a right back—you have 26 spots on the roster.”
Furthermore, the 72-year-old noted a lack of team cohesion: “It felt like every player was doing his own thing and often didn’t reach the level he’s shown in the league. I hope things turn around quickly.”
Following yet another World Cup setback, the DFB is now facing a fresh start. If Klopp does indeed take over, many critics expect him to lead the national team back to its former strength.