German public broadcaster ARD via Bild reported that only two players, Manuel Neuer and Leon Goretzka, were in favor of holding a protest over FIFA’s ban on the One Love bracelet.
The report claims that other players were not in favor of covering their mouths while posing for a team photo before the game against Japan, which the Europeans lost 2-1.
Players divided by protest
Several ideas with the hand-to-mouth gesture are believed to have been discussed as the preferred option after being endorsed by Joshua Kimmich. The Bild reported that the other players were opposed to doing anything.
Earlier, former Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger claimed that Germany’s political rallies contributed to their shock exit from the group stage.
The 2014 World Cup champions beat Costa Rica in their last group match, but failed to qualify for the round of 16 when Japan stunned Spain.
It was Germany’s second successive elimination from the World Cup group stage, following their disastrous exit in Russia four years ago.
Matthus criticizes the German FA
Former national player and legend Lothar Matthaus has criticized the German FA, claiming the governing body let his team down by its stance on wearing the One Love armband.
The 61-year-old former World Cup winner also slammed national team manager Olivier Bierhoff, saying: “He is, of course, responsible because he couldn’t handle the pressure and unrest from abroad. Not only him, but also the president and the people in charge of the DFB: they all let the coach and the team down.”
Matthaus also stated that the German FA must take responsibility for the continuation of the national team’s disastrous campaign: “I hope the DFB will speak honestly about their mistakes. I think of President Neuendorf, who criticized everything here in Doha before the World Cup and then I see him during the game sitting in the stands next to Gianni Infantino and smiling at the camera for 3 minutes.
“The players realize that, they pressure them to set an example and protest, but then they see the people who demand it smiling on camera.”
However, Matthaus has backed head coach Hansi Flick saying the former Bayern Munich manager is the right person for the job despite the surprising departure. However, he did mention that the team could have been more prepared, but also conceded that Flick should remain in charge until 2024.
The former Ballon d’Or winner said: “I hope the young players who were here develop more in the next 2 years. I also think that Hansi Flick will be the coach at Euro 2024. “Hansi is shy and I am convinced that by 2024 we will see a team that will put together and train well from the start.”
Photo credit: IMAGO / Ulmer/Teamfoto
World Cup 2022 Guide
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