by Oliver Trust

BERLIN, Oct. 9 (Xinhua) -- Tensions surrounding the German national team are intensifying ahead of its 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Luxembourg and Northern Ireland.

Injuries have hampered progress for coach Julian Nagelsmann, who also faces criticism over his struggle to establish stability. Several pundits, including Germany's record international Lothar Matthaus, are calling for an end to experiments with tactics and personnel.

The 64-year-old said that with eight months until the World Cup, the team needs to implement familiar procedures.

Former internationals like Matthias Sammer and Bastian Schweinsteiger have criticized the lack of a clear team hierarchy and pointed to ongoing tactical changes and staff rotations as causes of instability.

Following a 2-0 defeat by Slovakia, Nagelsmann's position is under threat as he risks missing direct qualification for next year's tournament. Two years into his tenure, the team struggles with a wavering defense, midfield problems and a scoring drought.

The team has kept only seven clean sheets in 25 matches, alongside 13 wins, six draws and six losses. The frequent formation switches between three- and four-defender systems, plus the selection of 52 players including 19 debutants, highlights a coach searching for solutions.

Recent results, including three defeats in the last six games, tell their own story. The debate about a potential return for retired goalkeeper Manuel Neuer also persists.

The sports magazine Kicker noted that the German team was at a concerning low point.

After early eliminations from the 2018 and 2022 World Cups, support among German fans has fallen to new lows. Fans booed the team off the field at halftime against Northern Ireland in Cologne.

Despite losing key players such as Antonio Rudiger (Real Madrid), Marc-Andre ter Stegen (Barcelona), Jamal Musiala (Bayern Munich) and Kai Havertz (Arsenal), Nagelsmann has called for passionate performances but has stopped short of expressing ambitions to win the 2026 World Cup.

It seems telling that games against underdogs like Luxembourg and Northern Ireland have become must-win opportunities.

While Nagelsmann is asking for patience and expresses confidence in his team, former German team director Oliver Bierhoff suggested "that we might have less quality than we think. It might make sense to look at the achievements of the players' clubs and their international experience."

Newcastle's recent signing Nick Woltemade, despite having only two UEFA Champions League appearances, may embody Bierhoff's remarks as he appears to carry Germany's hopes in the upcoming qualifiers. ■