Lena Oberdorf's Euro-less Adventure: Everywhere but the Pitch for the DFB Squad Member
Lena Oberdorf is conspicuously absent from the European Championship, despite media presence elsewhere.
Written by Anja Rau
Football fever is sweeping through Germany as the women's team takes the field against Austria, scoring six goals in a rout that ignites hope for the upcoming Euros. Yet, the excitement for 23-year-old Lena Oberdorf, who has been a constant presence during the international phase, is dampened as she's left out of the squad.
Oberdorf munches popcorn on the sidelines, packs up her vibrant bag for goal celebrations, chats amiably with friendly opponents after the game, and poses between Jule Brand and Carlotta Wamser to cheer with fans. Oberdorf is everywhere, only not on the pitch during the games.
The disappointing performances against Austria and Scotland in the first half of the games had cast doubts on Germany's chances in the Euros, a stark reminder of the 2023 World Cup debacle still fresh in everyone's minds.
Euphoria Redefined
But fans want to forget the past, and the team is fueling expectations. National coach, Christian Wueck, shares his optimism after the victorious game, the last before traveling to Switzerland. Yet, it's clear that Austria did not qualify for the Euros, and the Netherlands can perform better than they did against Germany. In the Euro quarter-finals, a duel with the group featuring title defender England, top team France, and the Netherlands awaits. Wueck remains hopeful: "We are aware of our responsibility: If we play a good tournament, women's football in Germany might take the next step."
The unexpected Euro success in 2022, where the team earned the Vice-European Championship title, sparked a wave of excitement. Thousands extended support, jerseys with players' names flourished, and international matches took center stage in prime-time TV. The disappointing emergency brake at the World Cup in Australia and the subsequent Olympic bronze medal didn't derail the growing momentum. The new national coach, Wueck, steered the ship after the eccentric yet popular Horst Hrubesch.
While Julian Nagelsmann has won hearts with his charm and wit as the men's team coach, Wueck hasn't yet managed to win over public favor with his more laid-back approach. Criticism regarding non-selections of several players, who voiced concerns about poor communication, has followed.
A Twist in the Tale
The communication surrounding Oberdorf's surprising squad announcement has caused a stir. After her ACL injury kept her off the field for ten months, Oberdorf is on FC Bayern's payroll but hasn't played a game. The club and the DFB agreed that she could be part of the team but not play. Wueck initially hinted that she was "100 percent fit to play," but it was Oberdorf herself who later clarified the details, causing public confusion.
"Obi is a regular part of the team. She has trained normally, she has integrated well. It's not just about Obi, it's about the team," Wueck remarked before the Austria game. But also, "We can still tell that she's very much in her body, in her knee. And maybe not fully free from it mentally."
A Glimpse into the Future
Although it seemed impossible at the beginning of the Nations League group phase that the team could succeed without Oberdorf, the mood has since shifted. Frankfurt's Elisa Senß has risen to prominence, Sjoeke Nüsken has shown her growth since her Chelsea move two years ago, and Rebekka Knaak from Manchester City has entered the radar. Wueck appointed Janina Minge as co-captain, demonstrating trust in her leadership.
Even before, it seemed somewhat unfair if Oberdorf were to be nominated without playing time. Regardless of all the camaraderie and team spirit, no one would voluntarily give up their spot during such a significant tournament. Despite her class and sportsmanship, Oberdorf has made her name since her debut at the 2019 World Cup at 17.
With the Euros fast approaching, Wueck faces the challenging task of finalizing the 23-player squad by June 12. The DFB has chosen Europapark Rust to announce the roster. The roller coaster ride for Lena Oberdorf may have reached its end.
Community policy might be addressed regarding the clarification on Lena Oberdorf's non-selection for the Euros, considering the public confusion surrounding her fitness and the applications of vocational training in sports management could be valuable in such situations. On a lighter note, Lena Oberdforf, amidst her Euro-less adventure, could seek opportunities for vocational training in sports coaching, perhaps focusing on her beloved sport, football.
