Germany coach Joachim Low admitted on Wednesday a form of arrogance in his desire to play a perfect game to his team at the World Cup in Russia, which ultimately led to the elimination of Germany in the first round.
After the 2014 world title, Low explained: “We have become more and more a team of ball possession and total domination. It was essential because our opponents played more and more folded and were more and more afraid of our cons. For four years we did it very well.”
“I wanted to improve even more, to reach perfection. That’s where I was almost arrogant. We must not in any case give up our vision of the game, an offensive vision, but we must find a balance.
“At the World, I took too many risks, wanting to play a football licked and brilliant in the first round. It was a big mistake, because in the group stage the matches were actually playoff games.
“We will have to adapt our style and become more flexible, more flexible so as not to take as many risks. With all of our energy, we want to bring the ship back on course.” he added.
Low also admitted that he had not managed to revive the “great flame” of motivation in his players, to whom he lacked a soul to beat opponents who played the game of their lives against the reigning world champion.
Germany, having lost their opening game against Mexico (1-0), won at the last minute against Sweden (2-1) but then trashed by South Korea (2-0).
Joachim Low and Mesut Ozil. (Source:www.hindustantimes.com)
Low meanwhile said he was snubbed by Arsenal midfielder Mesut Ozil after the Germany star abruptly retired from international football following the furore over a picture with the Turkey president, Recep Tayyip Erdogan, before the 2018 World Cup.
The 58-year-old manager said he had failed in his attempts to contact Ozil and he had been notified of Ozil’s retirement by the player’s adviser.
“He has not called me – in the past that was the case when players retired from the national team. Mesut decided on a different path. I repeatedly tried reaching him via message or phone but that was not possible. I have to accept that.” Low said.
“My only intention was to prepare best the World Cup. This issue also cost us energy because it was always there. It is no excise for our performance.” Low added.
