Criticizing Dortmund and Terzic: Matthäus Calls out Lack of Team DNA
Lothar Matthäus, the legendary record international, has levied harsh criticism against Borussia Dortmund and their coach Edin Terzic. In a column on the "sky.de" website, Matthäus pointed out that Dortmund's current predicament is not solely due to Jude Bellingham's departure. The team, which boasts individual skills, lacks a cohesive fit, according to Matthäus.
"Outstanding professionals from last season are now underperforming. Emre Can is injured, while Julian Brandt shows glimpses of his ability, yet his consistency is lacking," wrote Matthäus on "Sky90" after a 4-0 loss to Bayern Munich and a 2-1 defeat in Stuttgart. Matthäus had previously questioned Dortmund's team spirit, referring to it as a "struggle" amidst a string of poor performances.
Matthäus took aim at Terzic's tactics as well, stating that "playing defensively against Bayern, and in Stuttgart too, isn't the DNA of this team." As results and performances consistently falter, outside discussions of the coach may ensue. Borussia Dortmund currently sits in fifth place in the Bundesliga, ten points below leaders Bayer Leverkusen and eight behind Bayern. With cup performances as their only hope, maintaining a Champions League spot remains a possibility.
Matthäus suggested some remedies for the troubled team, stating that player meetings without the coach and only among the leading players could help shake things up and bring about change. He also stressed the importance of clear communication, which he believes was lacking in the past.
Facing criticism, Dortmund will need to address these concerns to restore their reputation as a dominant force in German football.
Enrichment Data:
Matthäus's criticism comes as Borussia Dortmund grapples with several factors contributing to their poor performance. Among these factors are:
- Ineffective Leadership:
- Lack of clear leadership and hierarchy in the team has led to confusion among players, with Emre Can and Julian Brandt struggling to establish and maintain leadership roles.
- Coaching Mistakes:
- Nuri Şahin, the former coach, experimented with an inclusive approach, trying to bring everyone into the fold. However, this strategy has not proven successful and still affects BVB's performance today.
- Away Struggles:
- Dortmund has faced significant challenges away from home, managing only a single win in their first nine matches. Inconsistent performances have made it challenging for the team to maintain a consistent run in the Bundesliga.
Matthäus also offered suggestions for improvement:
- Interim Coaching Solution:
- Matthäus suggests that former national coach Jogi Low could provide temporary relief before a new long-term coach is appointed. Low's presence could help create stability and a clear direction for the troubled team.
- Establishing a Clear Hierarchy:
- A strong, influential player like Joshua Kimmich or Granit Xhaka is essential to guide the team and unite its members. By establishing a dominant figure, the team can embody a clear vision and direction.
- Long-term Coaching Solution:
- While Low could provide a temporary solution, Matthäus emphasizes the need for a qualified, experienced coach to step in long term and instill discipline, clarity, and confidence in the team. Only then can Borussia Dortmund return to its winning ways.
