Overview
- Becker made the remarks on Johannes B. Kerner’s 'Kerners 11' podcast on Wednesday and framed them as a response to Germany’s early World Cup elimination.
- He praised the North American tournament as a 'festival of different nations' and singled out smaller teams for showing pride and strong atmospheres.
- Becker said extensive pre-tournament criticism — over commercialization, tournament size and FIFA’s closeness to U.S. politics — dulled German fan engagement.
- He faulted the national side’s mentality, called the 7:1 win over Curaçao overrated, and specifically criticized young midfielders Florian Wirtz and Jamal Musiala for underperforming.
- Becker expressed hope that Jürgen Klopp, who is widely expected to take over as coach, could restore motivation and reshape the team’s approach.