Germany legend Lothar Matthaus has launched a fierce criticism of Julian Nagelsmann’s tactical approach following the national team’s disappointing World Cup result against Ecuador. The former captain firmly believes that current skipper Joshua Kimmich is being held back by his deployment at right-back.

Tactical debate grips the squad

A nationwide discussion has erupted over Germany’s tactical setup after their underwhelming performance in the final group stage match. Matthaus has urged head coach Nagelsmann to stop using Kimmich in defence and instead restore him to his natural role in central midfield. The Bayern Munich star has alternated between right-back and midfield throughout his career, but Matthaus insists that the 2-1 loss to Ecuador on Thursday proved the team is stronger with the 31-year-old operating in the centre.

Matthaus calls for midfield return

The veteran insists that Kimmich’s influence is being wasted on the flank, as he cannot dictate the tempo or lead the game effectively from deep defensive positions.

Speaking to Bild, Matthaus said: “Do him a favour and get him out of the backline. I don’t see the Joshua on the pitch that I’ve known for years. At Bayern Munich, he is absolutely world-class. In terms of his body language and positioning, I don’t see him as someone who leads the team or exerts influence when things aren’t going well. From the right-back position, he just can’t seem to manage it.”

However, Nagelsmann defended his midfield pairing of Felix Nmecha and Aleksandar Pavlovic, describing their displays as “good”. The coach also highlighted that Kimmich had been a “top right-back with by far the best statistics” during Euro 2024, further stating: “I don’t want to do without either Felix or Pavlo.”

Squad composition leaves gaps

Germany’s predicament largely stems from Nagelsmann’s contentious decision not to include a single natural right-back in his final World Cup squad. Shifting Kimmich back into midfield would leave a defensive void, particularly with Nathaniel Brown recovering from a knock and David Raum struggling for form.

Despite the mounting criticism, Kimmich maintained a composed approach when asked about his positional preference. The captain reiterated that it is “solely the manager’s decision” where he plays.

Knockout stage challenges ahead

Germany now face the urgent task of resolving their tactical uncertainties before their round of 32 knockout match in Boston on Monday. Nagelsmann’s men are set to face a third-placed qualifier, with their exact opponents to be confirmed once the remaining group fixtures conclude on Saturday night.