Analysis shows Jürgen Klopp has clear winners and losers
In the first Nations League quartet under new national team coach Jürgen Klopp, the German national team collected only four points – a result that, given the high expectations, hardly excites. The four matches against Serbia, Greece and the Netherlands offered both convincing wins and bitter defeats.
Four points from four games are considered, according to analysis, as not very convincing when the ambitious goals of the German side are taken into account. Klopp used the playing time to test numerous players and draw initial conclusions for the upcoming phase.
First successes and bitter defeats
The commanding 2‑0 victory over Serbia displayed the offensive potential, while the 0‑1 result against Greece revealed defensive frailty. Both matches highlighted the fluctuations that can be expected in Klopp's new era.
A 1‑1 draw in the Netherlands and a goalless 0‑0 stalemate in the return match against Greece rounded off the record. The two draws hardly provided the necessary point security for promotion.
Individual players as winners and losers
The 25‑year‑old Freiburg native Philipp Treu is considered the biggest discovery of the opening matches. He strengthens the right side of the defence, but must continue to deliver strong performances for SC Freiburg and the national team to secure his place for the November selection.
Before the break, Marc‑André ter Stegen was declared the provisional number‑one goalkeeper, but was only allowed to stand between the posts in the encounter with the Netherlands. Jonas Urbig, who belonged to the second squad, featured in the other two matches and impressed with a brilliant save, especially when he kept Masouras's header in the game against Greece.
Aleksandar Pavlović, the Bayern star, was among the best players on the pitch in the matches against Serbia and the return game against Greece. His versatility suggests that he could take on a key role in Klopp's system, possibly even challenging captain Joshua Kimmich for the leadership.
Due to Nico Schlotterbeck's injury, Malick Thiaw had to form the centre‑back duo with Waldemar Anton in games three and four. The Thiaw, who is contracted to Newcastle United, proved that he is a worthy representative of Borussia Dortmund and has not fallen behind in the internal ranking of centre‑backs.
Overall, Klopp has examined numerous options and can now make targeted decisions for the upcoming international fixtures in November. The analysis of the first phase provides clear indications of who can continue to progress under his leadership and who still falls short of expectations.