Klopp’s Germany project under pressure after just one win in four matches

Jurgen Klopp’s Germany tenure has started with only one victory from four internationals, leaving the former Liverpool and Borussia Dortmund manager facing early scrutiny despite signs of improvement in the team’s performances.

Germany’s 2-0 win over Serbia last week is their only success since Klopp took charge in July, replacing Julian Nagelsmann following another disappointing World Cup exit. They lost at home to Greece, drew 0-0 on Sunday and had earlier drawn 1-1 with the Netherlands in Nations League Group Two.

The results leave Germany third on five points, behind leaders the Netherlands and Greece, who each have eight, according to Reuters.

Lothar Matthaus, captain of Germany’s 1990 World Cup-winning side, said: “Overall, it was clear that many aspects of their play were not completely in harmony yet.

“It was clear that the young players enjoyed the experience. Unfortunately, the points we collected were not at the required level. We cannot be satisfied with our points tally.”

Klopp, however, believes Germany’s performances contain encouraging signs that are not reflected fully in the results. The team appeared more aggressive and sharper than in recent years, with periods of the fast, attacking football associated with the 59-year-old manager.

“I am extremely satisfied because I know where we came from,” Klopp said after the final match of the four-game sequence. “I would not have believed that we could produce a first half at this level after only one week. The players performed brilliantly; their movement and positioning were outstanding.

“I am very impressed by the team and by the way we played. Everyone worked extremely hard over the past two weeks and proved they deserved to be selected. When we defend collectively like that, the players can produce wonderful football.”

Klopp surprised many observers and attracted considerable praise when he named a 44-player squad for the four matches, split into two separate groups of 22. Sixteen players received their first international call-ups as he attempted to restore the reputation of the four-time world champions.

Defender Philip Trow and winger Derry Sherhant were among the newcomers to make strong starts to their Germany careers.

Klopp’s challenge is now about more than assembling a competitive side; he must also revive Germany’s qualification campaign. Under Nagelsmann, Germany suffered a surprise defeat by Paraguay in the last 32 of the World Cup in June. It was their third early tournament failure after group-stage exits in 2018 and 2022.

The nation’s most recent major title came at the 2014 World Cup, and supporters have little patience for another setback.

Germany face Serbia away on 13 November before hosting the Netherlands three days later. They need victories in those matches if they are to remain in contention for one of the top two places and continue their bid to qualify.