“Laufen seit Jahren hinterher”
Philipp Lahm harshly criticizes the DFB following the disgraceful failure at the 2026 World Cup.
© IMAGO/DeFodi Images/IMAGO/DeFodi.de
Philipp Lahm makes it clear after the World Cup debacle: too many experiments, too little leadership, no top coaches anymore. According to him, the DFB is losing touch with the football world.
Philipp Lahm’s Critique of the DFB After WM Blamage
Former German captain Philipp Lahm reflects on the deeper and more enduring causes of the crisis plaguing German football. “We have been lagging behind for ten years because we do not adapt to current developments; instead, we follow our own paths,” Lahm stated in a guest article for the “Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung.” He criticized the return of man-to-man marking in the Bundesliga, saying, “If we continue to do this, we will keep failing.”
A Lack of Continuity in Coaching
Lahm also pointed out the absence of continuity that is characteristic of all top teams. According to him, Germany is taking a different route than the rest of the world and failing to adapt accordingly.
He highlighted the numerous errors in player positioning and frequent system changes, noting, “There are too many experiments.” Lahm’s criticism was directed at former national coach Julian Nagelsmann, emphasizing the importance of “clarity and order” in team management.
Missing Leadership from the DFB
For Lahm, the quality of coaching in Germany has suffered significantly. “What has been lost in recent years regarding coaching appointments is footballing quality and personal experience at the highest level,” he remarked. He argues for the necessity of former professional players who are willing to undergo methodological training and invest the time needed to achieve excellence.
He cited successful coaches like Didier Deschamps from France, Carlo Ancelotti (Brazil), and the Spanish coaches Mikel Arteta (Arsenal), Pep Guardiola (former Manchester City), and Xabi Alonso (Chelsea) as examples of successful leadership.
The Bundesliga’s Focus on Foreign Players
Lahm expressed concern that German clubs are excessively signing solid but not exceptional foreign players. He stated, “This approach is an easy way to secure the level of performance, but it prevents development as homegrown players do not find space in the teams.”
This alarming trend underscores the systemic issues within German football and raises questions about the future direction of the sport in the nation. Without proactive measures from the DFB and clubs to prioritize youth development and adapt to global trends, Germany risks falling further behind on the international stage.
