Germany: Has Low’s Era Come To An End?

Germany suffered a humiliating 6-0 loss in Spain on Tuesday night, underlining just how far they have fallen over the past few years.

In addition, they were three down at the break – not since 2006, against Italy, had they suffered such a humiliating start – and the incredible thing was, the scoreline flattered the visitors.

They offered absolutely nothing going forward, with Toni Kroos admitting, “Spain showed us how to attack.”

Germany managed just two shots and none on target. And that’s despite Germany fielding a forward line containing not only Gnabry but also Leroy Sane and Timo Werner.

Spain had 14 shots during the opening 45 minutes – Germany managed one.

The gulf in class was both shocking and embarrassing. Germany had gone into this game top of the group, needing only a point to progress.

However, there is no denying that this is a side in decline. They’ve been struggling since the 2018 World Cup when they crashed out in almost farcical circumstances in the group stage.

Low recognized that, of course, deciding to end the international careers of Thomas Muller, Mats Hummels, and Jerome Boateng.

Low’s critics argue that maybe the problem in Russia two years ago wasn’t the players – but the coach.

It’s hard not to look at a team full of world-class players and wonder if Low has lost his way.

This was Germany’s first defeat since September of last year but it had been coming. The quality of the performances has been steadily declining, in spite of the emergence of some exciting young talent.

Ominously, they had arrived in Seville having kept just once clean sheet since last November. That porous defense was ruthlessly exposed by Spain’s electric front three.

Low, of course, has achieved great things with the national team but even the greatest coaches can outstay their welcome and it is now six years since Germany conquered the world.

International football is obviously different from the club game but Low has been in charge for 14 years and involved for 16.

Maybe it’s time for a change; time for something new.