Germany’s Recent Struggles Raise Concerns Ahead of Euro 2028

In the world of international football, few names have commanded as much respect and fear as Germany. With four World Cup titles and three European Championships, the German national team—commonly referred to as Die Mannschaft—has long stood as a symbol of efficiency, tactical discipline, and tournament pedigree. However, in recent years, that aura has dimmed. A series of disappointing performances, managerial changes, and tactical confusion have raised serious concerns about the direction of German football. As Euro 2028 approaches, the pressure is mounting for Germany to rediscover its identity. For ongoing coverage of European football’s biggest narratives and national team evolutions, visit changi77, your reliable source for all things football.

A Decline Marked by Repeated Failures

The signs of decline began with Germany’s shocking group-stage exit at the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia. That result marked the first time Germany had failed to make it past the group stage since 1938. While many at the time wrote it off as a fluke or a hangover from their 2014 triumph, the problems only deepened.

In the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, Germany once again failed to advance past the group stage, finishing behind Japan and Spain. Their inability to close out games and the lack of a cutting edge in front of goal were all-too-familiar issues.

Coupled with an underwhelming performance at Euro 2024, where they exited in the Round of 16, the narrative has shifted from isolated failures to a full-blown identity crisis.

Tactical Confusion and Lack of Cohesion

One of the most noticeable symptoms of Germany’s decline has been a tactical identity crisis. Historically, German teams were known for their organized defending, precise passing, and collective strength. Today, those traits seem diluted.

Under Julian Nagelsmann, who took over as head coach in late 2023 following the departure of Hansi Flick, the German national team has experimented with various systems—from a high-pressing 4-2-3-1 to a more compact 3-4-2-1. However, the players have often looked uncomfortable and disconnected on the pitch.

Midfielders are caught between roles, defenders struggle with positioning, and attacking transitions are either too rushed or overly cautious. There’s no clear spine, no defined leader, and no consistent link between defense and attack.

Aging Stars and Unprepared Youth

Germany’s recent squads have also struggled with transitional imbalance. Veterans like Manuel Neuer, Thomas Müller, and Ilkay Gündogan have offered experience, but many are past their peak and no longer capable of performing at the highest level.

Meanwhile, young talents such as Jamal Musiala, Florian Wirtz, and Karim Adeyemi bring flair and promise, but are still developing the mental fortitude and game management required at the international level.

The German Football Association (DFB) has invested heavily in youth development since its post-Euro 2000 overhaul, but critics argue that the current system emphasizes technical ability at the expense of mental resilience and tactical adaptability—two areas in which the team is now lacking.

Defensive Vulnerabilities and Goalkeeping Concerns

Once known for producing world-class defenders, Germany now looks vulnerable at the back. Antonio Rüdiger remains a top-tier center-back, but there’s a lack of quality depth alongside him. Niklas Süle has been inconsistent, while younger options like Malick Thiaw and Armel Bella-Kotchap have yet to prove themselves at the highest level.

Goalkeeping, a position of historical strength, is also uncertain. Manuel Neuer’s return after injury has been inconsistent, and while Marc-André ter Stegen is a capable replacement, there seems to be a lack of trust and continuity between the posts. The confusion over who should start reflects broader issues of leadership and direction within the squad.

The Mental Game: Where Is the Famous German Resolve?

Perhaps the most alarming development is the apparent erosion of Germany’s psychological edge. The “never say die” attitude that once defined their national identity seems to have faded. In recent matches, the team has looked mentally fragile—struggling to respond to setbacks and often collapsing under pressure.

Against Japan in both 2022 and 2023, for example, Germany conceded quick goals after losing control of the midfield. Against Hungary in the Nations League, they looked disorganized and uninspired. In friendlies leading up to Euro 2028, they’ve failed to produce convincing performances even against mid-tier European nations.

Coaching Conundrums and the Road to Euro 2028

While Nagelsmann is regarded as one of Europe’s brightest young minds, his transition to international football has not been seamless. His high-intensity style requires time and specific player profiles—luxuries that national team managers rarely have.

His task is further complicated by the DFB’s long-standing tendency to interfere with tactical decisions and squad selection. The pressure from within the German football hierarchy is as intense as the pressure from fans and the media.

As Euro 2028 approaches, Nagelsmann’s future remains uncertain. If Germany falters in their remaining friendlies or looks out of depth in their group stage performances, the DFB may be forced to make yet another managerial change.

Rebuilding the Machine: What Needs to Change?

For Germany to regain their former stature, a comprehensive restructuring of philosophy and priorities is needed:

1. Define a Clear Tactical Identity – Whether it’s possession-based or counter-attacking, Germany needs a consistent style that suits their players and instills confidence.

2. Invest in Leadership Development – With few vocal leaders on the pitch, the team lacks direction during matches. Captains aren’t just symbolic—they’re tactical enforcers.

3. Bridge the Generational Gap – Veterans and youth must be blended more carefully, with a clear succession plan to ensure smooth transitions.

4. Mental Resilience Training – Germany must reintroduce psychological coaching to restore the discipline and toughness that once made them tournament giants.

Final Thoughts

Germany’s recent struggles are not just a temporary dip in form—they are symptomatic of deeper structural and philosophical issues that need urgent attention. While the talent pool remains rich, the cohesion, mental strength, and tactical clarity that once made Germany a juggernaut have been replaced by confusion and inconsistency.

As Euro 2028 draws nearer, the pressure on the DFB, Julian Nagelsmann, and the players will only intensify. For Germany to reclaim its rightful place at the top of world football, changes must be swift, smart, and sustainable.

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