Mario Basler slams German football after World Cup exit

Former Bayern midfielder Mario Basler publicly denounced Germany’s 2026 World Cup performance, calling the squad a “catastrophe” and declaring, “Die können alle weg.” He faulted former head coach Julian Nagelsmann for “no good decisions” and criticized captain Joshua Kimmich and the players for never reaching a semi‑final in five tournaments. Basler also condemned the country’s youth development system, urging the closure of talent academies that, in his view, train children like robots. He suggested that if Jürgen Klopp were appointed as national team coach, he should “completely overhaul” the squad.

Basler’s remarks were made during a press event in Schwäbisch‑Hall, reflecting broader public frustration with Germany’s early knockout in the round of 16 against Paraguay.