Bastian Schweinsteiger says Germany now average after Greece loss

Former Bayern Munich midfielder Bastian Schweinsteiger said Germany have slipped from a top side to an average team after the national side’s 1‑0 defeat to Greece, warning that the squad no longer possesses players who can change games in international competition.

Schweinsteiger's blunt assessment

Speaking on Das Erste, Schweinsteiger explained: “We’re no longer a top team. We’re now just an average team. We no longer have players who make the difference.” He added that even Greece have Karetsas, Tzolis and Pavlidis – players who can decide matches.

He expressed hope that Jürgen Klopp will develop a side capable of playing the brand of football associated with the Liverpool manager. Klopp, who recently named an extended squad of 44 players split into two groups, now faces the task of revitalising the national side.

Klopp faces squad overhaul as German stars risk losing place

The German team’s recent draw against the Netherlands and the loss to Greece have sparked criticism over whether the side still has the quality to compete with the world’s leading nations. Analysts argue the lack of decisive talent is evident.

Joshua Kimmich echoed the view, stating: “At the moment, we’re way off being a top team,” and added that Schweinsteiger’s assessment was hard to dispute.

The criticism places pressure on Klopp to reshape the squad and restore Germany’s reputation ahead of upcoming fixtures. Ahead of the next qualifiers, the coach must act to revive the nation’s footballing standing.