Schweinsteiger slams Germany: 'We are no longer a top team'

Bastian Schweinsteiger, the 2026 world champion, has launched a strong criticism of the Germany national team after their unconvincing displays in the Nations League. The former midfielder believes the current generation cannot be compared with previous golden generations, and he warned that German football is becoming mediocre among Europe's leading teams. Germany opened their Nations League group campaign with a 1-1 draw against the Netherlands, conceding an equalizer in stoppage time. In the next match, Jürgen Klopp's side caused deep disappointment after losing 0-1 to Greece. Immediately, the wave of criticism aimed at the German head coach grew stronger. Still, Schweinsteiger believes the problem does not lie only with the coaching staff, but with the fact that the team no longer has enough individuals capable of making a difference in big matches. Speaking on ARD's analysis program, Schweinsteiger did not hide his frustration. 'We are no longer a top team. We have become mediocre. We no longer have players who can make the difference. Even Greece have Karetsas, Tzolis and Pavlidis – players who do make the difference. I hope Klopp builds a team that play football in Klopp's style,' the former Germany midfielder said. Notably, Schweinsteiger still supports Klopp's approach during the transition period. In four Nations League matches, Klopp selected a total of 44 players. Schweinsteiger does not see that as a bad thing; he believes it is right to give new internationals a chance and to evaluate the squad thoroughly. 'Klopp must look at every player who comes into consideration,' he added. However, there is one name exempt from Schweinsteiger's criticism: Joshua Kimmich. According to the former Bayern Munich midfielder, Kimmich is the irreplaceable piece in the build-up play. 'If we have to play out from the back, he is the only one who can give creative passes. If he is not there, the team will face many difficulties,' Schweinsteiger said. This assessment raises a major question about Germany's squad depth in midfield. When pressed intensely, Germany seem to lack a solution that is both safe and refined enough to escape the press. Kimmich is one of the few players bold enough to take responsibility in front of goal, willing to receive the ball under pressure and deliver passes that break the opponent's defensive lines. If he is absent or shut down, Germany's play becomes stagnant and lacks ideas. In the immediate term, Germany will have a chance to improve their situation in the Nations League. They will face Serbia at home on October 1, 2026. Three days later, on October 4, 2026, Klopp's team will travel to Greece. The group stage ends on November 16, 2026, with a home match against the Netherlands in Berlin. The return of Serbia, Greece and the Netherlands is also a test of the young players' mentality. If Germany continue to show a weak character, the pressure on Klopp will increase. Conversely, if the new players seize their opportunities and deliver convincing performances, it could be a turning point that brings Die Mannschaft back on track. Schweinsteiger does not demand Klopp win immediately, but he expects the team to show a clear identity. Spirit, intensity and proactive play are what German fans want to see. The warning from the 2026 world champion may be hard to hear, but it reflects the reality that German football is going through a difficult transition. In that context, Klopp's decision to call up 44 players could be seen as turbulence, but Schweinsteiger views it as the only way to find players who are truly ready. There is no 'golden generation' falling from the sky. To be reborn, Germany must be bold in experimenting, accept risks and give young players enough time to adapt. That is the path many big teams have taken before regaining glory. What remains is the answer on the pitch. Germany need to do better in taking chances, controlling the tempo and solving the problem when the opponent presses actively. Kimmich will certainly remain the center of Klopp's plans, but modern football cannot rely on one individual. The other players must share responsibility if they want to help Germany escape the crisis of confidence. Schweinsteiger's criticism, therefore, is not simply harshness. It is a reminder that Germany's position on the world football map is not guaranteed by a glorious history, but must be confirmed through every match and every generation of players.