DFB team XXL experiment burdens Klopp after a failed debut
The DFB Team XXL experiment started for Jürgen Klopp with a shaky home debut in Augsburg, as the national team was greeted with whistles by its own fans in the arena stadium and suffered the first defeat under the 59‑year‑old coach. Two games later the squad had only one point and was already in trouble in the Nations League.
Two authors share their view
Two authors present their subjective perspective on the topic here. They emphasize that no one is obliged to adopt these opinions, but they can provoke thought. The DFB Team XXL experiment is at the centre of their analysis.
Jürgen Klopp, 59, experienced his first defeat (0‑1) as national coach in the second match against Greece. After the Augsburg debut he thanked the fans in the arena stand for their support, although part of the crowd responded with whistles. Klopp took responsibility and positioned himself protectively like a lioness in front of his players.
XXL Experiment: Scope and initial consequences
The radical XXL experiment covers the first four internationals with 44 players and two different squads. In theory the casting should quickly find new faces for the national team. In practice the plan failed already after the first two matches, before the squad change was carried out.
Through the so‑called shaking‑sieve tactic Klopp discovered right‑back Philipp Treu. Most of the other previously unknown players, however, are unlikely to be seen in a DFB jersey again. The experiment has already cost the team one point from two games.
Klopp's setback: Germany unexpectedly loses to Greece
Points, Nations League and consequences
The tally of one point from two games already puts the national team in trouble in the Nations League. The initial euphoria that Klopp had sparked quickly turned into disillusionment, as the whistles in Augsburg demonstrate. The squad now urgently needs a mood swing and the first win under the new head coach.
Because of the squad change, captain Joshua Kimmich is missing, missing his personal home game in Munich in the arena of his FC Bayern. Kimmich expressed surprise at his absence in Augsburg and left the team only reluctantly. Without the experienced player the newly assembled team must take on the task.
Klopp's poor start shows that he is not an infallible saviour and that not every idea works immediately. After the next two internationals the XXL experiment must be ended, otherwise the mood could also turn against him as national coach. He must quickly find a squad that can win games.
Klopp's new Germany still searching for its first win in Nations League
Germany is no longer a top football nation, the gap to Spain and France is enormous, almost like from the Earth to the Moon. Nevertheless there is a chance to change that, and Klopp is trying with fresh ideas. If he finds the right talents, the critics could fall silent.