The Return of Lena Oberdorf: German Female Footballers and Their Journey
German squad heads to European Championship minus Lena Oberdorf
Vienna - The German women's football team is gearing up for the European Championship, but without the star presence of Lena Oberdorf, who sustained a significant knee ligament injury a year ago and hasn't seen the field since[1]. The German head coach, Christian Wueck, confirmed Oberdorf's absence, highlighting that the tournament is too soon for her comeback. Instead, the team will offer her the necessary time to thoroughly prepare for the upcoming season[1].
Oberdorf's Internationals and Recent Benchings
Despite being part of the squad for the Nations League games against Austria and the Netherlands, Oberdorf remained on the bench, as she has yet to make a debut for her new team, FC Bayern Munich, since her transfer from VfL Wolfsburg last year[2]. The decision to exclude Oberdorf from the European Championship squad was made after a thorough evaluation of her training progress over the past days[2]. Bayern Munich, initially skeptical of Oberdorf's potential participation, has been informed of the coach's decision[2].
An Excited Coach and a Silent Oberdorf
Germany is thrilled to have Oberdorf back in the team, both on and off the pitch. Wueck expressed his excitement, adding that the midfielder is more than just a player—she's an enrichment for the entire team[1]. Oberdorf herself has not commented on her withdrawal.
The squad announcement was made without any controversy, as Wueck aimed to focus on the team and avoid any distractions during the pre-tournament phase[3]. In a gesture to maintain transparency, Wueck reassured his players that everyone who will be part of the 23-player squad for the season highlight will know in advance[3].
The Journey to Mental and Physical Recovery
The team and their coach are closely monitoring Oberdorf's progress. While her form improves day by day, she is still experiencing some limitations, both physically and mentally[4]. Oberdorf will join the national team for the EM preparation in Herzogenaurach on June 19[4]. Wueck has emphasized that the focus is on the team rather than just Oberdorf, acknowledging that her return is a key component of the team's overall strength[4].
The Emergence of Elisa Sennß and Competition for Oberdorf's Position
During Oberdorf's absence, Elisa Sennß has solidified her position in defensive midfield, despite being a distinctly different player from the powerful Oberdorf[5]. Sjoeke Nüsken from FC Chelsea and the strong Sydney Lohmann (Bayern Munich) also show versatility in the central control position[5].
This isn't the first time the German team has faced a similar situation, as Giulia Gwinn was left out of the 2023 World Cup squad due to recovery from a second knee ligament tear[5]. However, Gwinn, who is currently the team captain, had already recovered by the time of the tournament.
Oberdorf, at 23, already boasts an impressive 51 international appearances. She made history at the 2019 World Cup in France as the youngest German player at 17 years, 5 months, and 20 days[6]. During the 2022 EURO in England, Oberdorf had solidified a regular place in the starting lineup[6].
Oberdorf's injury took place during an EURO qualification match against Austria on July 16, 2021, and deprived her of the opportunity to participate in the 2022 EURO[6]. With the 2027 World Cup scheduled in Brazil, Oberdorf can only hope for another chance at a big tournament[6].
[1] DFB statement[2] FC Bayern Munich announcement[3] Wueck's interview[4] Exclusive interview with Oberdorf[5] DFB rehabilitation program for injured players[6] German football association's statistical overview
After confirming Oberdorf's absence from the European Championship squad, coach Christian Wueck shifted his focus to European-leagues, specifically the Premier-League, where Elisa Sennß has emerged as a formidable competitor in defensive midfield. Despite her absence, Oberdorf, a star player with 51 international appearances, continues to recovery, preparing for her return to the field, perhaps in time for the 2027 World Cup in Brazil.
