The German national team faces a crucial phase. After the 1-1 draw against Paraguay (29.06.2026), Philipp Lahm calls for a clear change of direction. The former captain warns against simply copying Spain's style. „We don’t need to copy the Spaniards and their possession play, we have our own strengths“, Lahm writes in his kicker column.
Why Lahm warns against copying Spain
Lahm emphasizes that the German team must rediscover its traditional strengths. „Defensive order, robust play, then attack – that’s what has always distinguished us as a national team“, says the 113-time international. He demands clear tasks and a defined formation to create repetition effects in training and matches.
What the DFB should do now
The DFB faces the challenge of developing its own identity under Jürgen Klopp. „Spain has a clear idea – in both directions, with and without the ball“, Lahm analyzes. He advises focusing more on performance. „At some point, you have to make changes if someone consistently fails to deliver“, says the expert.
The German team's current form
With three wins, one draw, and one loss in their last five games, the team shows solid form. The next match against the Netherlands on 24 September 2026 will be another test of whether the ongoing transformation is bearing fruit.
