Low: Germany moving in positive direction under Klopp
Joachim Low believes Jurgen Klopp is taking Germany in a “positive direction”, but has warned that setbacks will be part of the rebuilding process.
Klopp replaced Julian Nagelsmann after Germany’s shock World Cup last-32 exit on penalties against Paraguay. Five Nations League games into his reign, a place in the quarter-finals remains within reach, with their Group A2 fate resting on a final-day meeting with the Netherlands.
Germany have won twice, drawn twice and lost once under Klopp. Their latest result, a 3-1 victory over nine-man Serbia, extended their unbeaten run to three matches.
Low, who led Germany to World Cup glory in 2014, has been encouraged by the new coach’s early work.
“He gives the players a lot of confidence and is trying to develop a sustainable playing philosophy.”
Joachim Low, speaking to Bild TV
“He is doing a very, very good job,” Low said. “You get the feeling that things are heading in a positive direction.”
The start has not been without difficulties. Klopp failed to win either of his first two matches, including a surprise 1-0 defeat to Greece.
Germany’s recent World Cup record also underlines the scale of the task. They suffered two group-stage exits after their 2014 triumph, before going out at the first knockout hurdle this year.
Low urged patience as Klopp works to restore the team to that earlier level.
“His name alone does not always guarantee success. There will still be a few setbacks before we get back to that level,” he added.
“The results are not all that important at this stage. We are in the Nations League now, and qualifying begins next year, which we will get through.
“The important thing will be for the team to spend six months playing together and building an understanding.
“You cannot expect any coach to get everything working within a few weeks. You have to look at whether there is progress.”
