Big upheaval in the DFB team: London calling: start with stumbling blocks in the Wück era

Christian Wück is hardly to be envied. Alexandra Popp, a top striker, resigned and Lea Schüller left due to knee problems. In addition, the new national coach of the German footballers has major defensive concerns before his debut in the classic against European champions England. When entering the new era, the coach has to take a few detours to avoid pitfalls.

“Not everything will work in the two games, which is completely fine,” predicted central defender Sara Doorsoun before the duels this Friday in front of at least 52,000 fans at London’s Wembley Stadium (8.30 p.m./ARD) and three days later in Duisburg against Australia (6.10 p.m./ZDF). “These are simply two very good test games where we can and are allowed to try things out, but not everything will work out.” It takes time to develop an identity and game philosophy.

Wück: “Defense is our biggest problem”

Wück sees it similarly, especially with regard to the defense. “Defense is our biggest problem,” he openly admitted at the start of training on Monday, “although problem is the wrong word: biggest challenge.” Defense chief Marina Hegering from VfL Wolfsburg has resigned, club colleague Kathrin Hendrich (load control) is sidelined, Bibiane Schulze Solano from Athletic Bilbao will be out for a long time after tearing her cruciate ligament.

Against England’s strong attack, which is missing Chelsea’s injured top player Lauren James, Frankfurt central defenders Doorsoun and Sophia Kleinherne could be crucial. The latter does not want to fill a gap. “I just want to be here because I deserve it – and not because a player is injured or has retired or is being rested a bit,” said the 24-year-old. Wück’s predecessor Horst Hrubesch did not consider her for the Olympics in the summer.

Kleinherne has fond memories of Wembley

In 2019, Kleinherne celebrated her international debut in a 2-1 friendly win at Wembley – now the comeback? “These are of course stories that are written in football,” she commented. Also an option for the defense center according to Wück: Wolfsburg’s Janina Minge, a trained midfield clearer. Newcomer Lisanne Gräwe (23/Frankfurt) is hoping for her debut.

Even in the highly gifted offensive, the options have suddenly become fewer this week. Bayern striker Schüller (knee problems) and Frankfurt striker Laura Freigang (cold) had to leave, but returnees like Hoffenheim’s Selina Cerci (24) or newcomers like Giovanna Hoffmann (26/Leipzig) can prove themselves. “Everyone is eager to show off,” announced Cerci. At least Schüller will also be missing from Wück’s home premiere against Australia on Monday.

Popp, Hegering, Frohms: “Outstanding personalities” step down

Then Popp celebrates her big farewell in her 145th international match (67 goals). Hegering and goalkeeper Frohms, who will not be playing again in Duisburg, will also say goodbye. “Outstanding personalities,” said DFB sports director Nia Künzer about the trio. Midfield star Lena Oberdorf will be missing at least until spring (knee injury).

We are therefore looking for new leaders. Giulia Gwinn from FC Bayern is often mentioned and is also hotly talked about as a permanent captain. Gwinn is one of the most popular DFB players, articulate and takes responsibility for penalties. Against England, Wück sent the 25-year-old full-back onto the field as captain – and after that? The coach has to decide, she says, and the value of the position prohibits speculation.

Wück has decided that he does not want to make a decision on the K question for the time being. He hopes to gain further insight by the Nations League games at the beginning of next year. And a change without too many detours.