Jurgen Klopp has weighed in on Germany’s back three system that Joachim Low has deployed at Euro 2020 so far.
Germany have lined up in a 3-4-3 formation in their two group stage games against France and Portugal.
Manuel Neuer is in goal, with Matthias Ginter, Mats Hummels, and Antonio Rudiger at centre-back.
Robin Gosens and Joshua Kimmich line up as wing-backs, Toni Kroos and Ilkay Gundogan are in midfield, while the front three are Thomas Muller, Kai Havertz and Serge Gnabry.
So far, it has achieved mixed success. They were defeated 1-0 by world champions France in the first game thanks to an own goal by Hummels but demolished Portugal 4-2 in their second outing.
The wing-backs were crucial in the victory. Gosens directly contributed to three goals, while Kimmich assisted two.
However, Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp was critical of the decision to use a back three, favouring the back four system that he employs at club level.
Speaking to German outlet Magenta TV (via @iMiaSanMia on Twitter), Klopp said: “It’s a bit uncomfortable to judge because every coach has the right to make their own decisions.
“But I would play a back four with this team – I don’t like the system very much.
“I could imagine a midfield with Joshua Kimmich, Ilkay Gündogan and Toni Kroos extremely well. Everyone would be in the position in which they feel comfortable.”
Kimmich is one player who has been shifted out of position to accommodate the system.
He played as a right-back during the early years of his career but has enjoyed his best days as a central midfielder.
Despite his disagreements, Klopp wished Low well for the tournament. This is set to be his last tournament in charge of Germany, with Bayern Munich’s Hansi Flick waiting in the wings to take over.
“Regardless of all tactical aspects, I wish Jogi Löw the title,” he added.
“That would be the greatest culmination of his great time as national team coach, and I would be very happy.”
Read: Euro 2020 Diary – Don’t mess with Locatelli, Hartson drops a clanger, Southgate’s kidding himself.
