Matthias Sammer has criticized the German Football Association’s (DFB) youth development system, claiming the nation has become “cowards” by prioritizing tactical systems over individual player skill. Speaking at the “Sky Sport Impuls” discussion panel in Munich, the 1996 European champion cited Karim Adeyemi as an example of a talented player whose development may have been hindered by structural deficits in German coaching.
Sammer cites Karim Adeyemi as evidence of youth development gaps
Sammer noted that while Adeyemi and Kevin Schade are undoubtedly great players, their trajectories raise questions about the current state of German training.
The former DFB sporting director pointed to Adeyemi’s limited international experience—just 13 appearances for the national team—as a point of concern. Sammer argued that the current training philosophy focuses too heavily on the tactical system and not enough on individualization. He specifically questioned whether players like Adeyemi and Schade possess the ability to solve one-on-one situations or dribble effectively when they are not given space within a rigid system.
Tactical systems outweigh individual skill in Germany
Sammer asserted that Germany is “completely wrong” in its approach to developing talent. He criticized the prevailing philosophy of “strengthening strengths,” arguing instead that the most significant progress is made by addressing and improving a player’s weaknesses. He claimed that players naturally apply their strengths in daily play, making the targeted improvement of weaknesses the more productive path.
The 59-year-old former Ballon d’Or winner warned against the tendency to copy the models of other footballing nations, stating that “the best copy is still worse than the original.” He cautioned that while Germany can observe other countries, it must be confident enough to establish its own identity.
International title records contrast with player quality
Sammer challenged the DFB’s internal metrics for success. While German youth selections have won eight international titles and reached 14 finals since 2006, Sammer argued these numbers mask a decline in world-class individual quality. He contrasted this with Spain, which reached 22 finals and won 14 titles across all age groups in the same period.
Sammer believes the current environment is an ideal time for reform, describing the potential to develop German football now as a “klacks”—a simple task—provided the approach is streamlined. He rejected the need for exhaustive 400-page manuals, calling instead for a concise, one-page concept focused on basic fundamentals, mentality, and increased training volume.
Per Mertesacker expected to lead DFB sporting reforms
Sammer expressed significant optimism regarding Per Mertesacker, who is scheduled to become the DFB Managing Director of Sport on January 1, 2027. Mertesacker will succeed Andreas Rettig, taking responsibility for the national teams and the DFB academy. Sammer described Mertesacker as a personality with “broad shoulders” and the necessary clarity to defend and implement new conceptual contents.
The former national player believes Mertesacker, working alongside head coach Jürgen Klopp and youth development director Hannes Wolf, has the opportunity to change the direction of the sport in Germany. However, Sammer noted that the DFB environment can be difficult to manage, stating that Mertesacker must be "ruthless" in his implementation or risk failing in the role.
DFB youth development and the path to 2027
To clarify the current structural shift, the following table outlines the key figures Sammer identified as essential to the DFB’s trajectory:
| Role | Person | Sammer’s Perspective |
|---|---|---|
| Managing Director of Sport (Jan 2027) | Per Mertesacker | The leader needed to implement a concise, courageous concept. |
| National Team Head Coach | Jürgen Klopp | A figure capable of changing the footballing landscape. |
| Director of Youth & Development | Hannes Wolf | Key operative working one level below the management. |
Sammer concluded by offering his own assistance to the association, provided they overcome their perceived fear. “If someone believes that it could be useful, they can ask me. And he will always get an answer,” Sammer said.
Common questions regarding the DFB development crisis
Why is Karim Adeyemi specifically mentioned in this critique?
Sammer uses Adeyemi as an example of a player who has high club-level talent but whose national team integration and specific individual skills, like one-on-one dribbling, suggest a gap in the DFB’s individualized youth training.
When does the new leadership structure take effect?
Per Mertesacker is officially set to take over as the DFB Managing Director of Sport on January 1, 2027, replacing Andreas Rettig.
What specific training change does Sammer propose?
He advocates for a shift away from “strengthening strengths” toward “weakening weaknesses,” arguing that focusing on a player’s deficits leads to the greatest overall improvement.
“We have become cowards,” Sammer said.
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