Reigning champions Germany have been eliminated from the 2018 World Cup at the Group F stage, following 2-0 defeated by Asia representatives South Korean on Wednesday night at Kazan Arena, Russia.
Mesut Ozil was heavily criticised during Germany’s World Cup campaign in Russia. He was one of many Germany players who underperformed in there matches.
Arsenal midfielder was dropped fro Germany’s second group game against Sweden following the surprise 1-0 defeat to Mexico but was recalled for crucial match against South Korea.
Germany manager Joachim Low criticised Ozil during the tournament, he was unable to inspire his side Germany to win.
“Today, because of number of bans and injuries, we had to make changes. In 2014 and 2017 that was also the case, it happens.” Low told journalists.
“A team only begins to gel later at the tournament, so it makes sense to bring some players in and let it go easy on them. It wasn’t only Ozil, a number of the players perform as they normally would.
“I take responsibility for that and stand up for that, but I thought it was a good team. I didn’t think Thomas Muller had been that convincing in the first two matches and I wanted to make a point three.
“Towards the finish when we realised we needed a goal we took a defender out late on and that meant we became less structured, we couldn’t wait, we had to risk. We needed to throw things forward and it opened things up in defence.” Low added.
Germany shocked the world by leaving Leroy Sane.(Source:www.talksport.com)
The future of some Germany’s players is also in doubt after this embrace loss. According to reports, Manuel Neur, Sami Khedira, and Ozil will not be heading to the 2022 World Cup.
Low has left Manchester City winger Leroy Sane out of his squad. The 22-year-old has a good season under Pep Guardiola, he scored 14 goals and 19 assists in all competitions for City in the 2017/18 season.
“Do I think this will bring about a dark time in German football? No, I don’t think so. I think we have young players who are very talented, and some have the potential to go forward.” Low said.