2014 World Cup winning manager, Joachim Low will step down as Germany manager after this summer’s delayed Euro 2020 tournament.
Low’s contract was initially set to conclude after the 2022 FIFA World Cup but the German’s decision to depart this summer after the UEFA Euros was accepted by the German Football Association (DFB).
Speaking on his decision to move on from the 2014 World Cup and 2017 FIFA Confederations Cup champions, Low admitted that he is ‘absolutely sure’ about his choice with ‘immense gratitude’ and pride whilst still carrying ‘great motivation’ ahead of the Euros.
Low also acknowledged why he is ‘proud’ to have led his country since July 2006, saying: Proud because it is something very special and an honour for me to represent my country. And because I have been able to work with the country’s best footballers for almost 17 years and support them in their development.”
This summer’s Euros sees Germany face a tough challenge in Group F against their World Cup successors – France as well as Hungary and reigning champions – Portugal, as the Die Mannschaft look to avoid a second consecutive group stage exit at a major tournament.
Low however is reflective of the journey that he has been on since taking charge of Germany, commenting: “We’ve experienced great triumphs and painful defeats with them, but above all many wonderful and magical moments – not only winning the 2014 World Cup in Brazil.”
The 61 year-old also spoke of how ‘grateful’ he is to the DFB for providing him and the team with what he described as ‘an optimal working environment’ over the years.
‘Great respect’
DFB President, Fritz Keller spoke of his ‘great respect’ to Low for his decision to step down this summer and hailed the German as ‘one of the greatest coaches in world football.’
Keller also praised Low for his effort in helping to evolve German football and guiding the team to their first World Cup title in 2014 as an unified nation, since the reunion of West and East Germany to form the current Germany team in late 1990 following a post WWII split.
Low’s ’empathy and humanity’ were also singled out in his contribution to improving the sport domestically, with Keller impressed of his early declaration in wanting to depart the team, in order to provide the DFB with time to appoint a new manager with patience and ‘a sense of proportion.’
Director of National Teams and DFB Academy, Oliver Bierhoff meanwhile has often worked closely with Low since the latter joined the team as Assistant Manager in 2004, describing their bond as ‘a special relationship that above all is shaped by absolute trust.’
Bierhoff also spoke of the improved attractive attacking football by the national senior team under Low, with so many players from Manuel Neuer to Toni Kroos and Mario Gomez to name a few having developed their international play largely under Low’s guidance.
The 52 year-old however is confident that full focus remains on preparing for a successful Euro tournament this summer, saying: “We will continue to be united by a great common goal in the summer.”
Leave a Reply