Ballack on storm problems with the DFB-Elf: one in front was given away, the other "can be used"

Created: 10/13/2022 10:18 p.m

By: Vincent Fischer

The 2022 World Cup will start in a few weeks. Michael Ballack thinks that Kai Havertz shouldn't play up front - and considers Marco Reus indispensable.

London – The German national soccer team has had one and the same problem for years: the DFB team is missing a real nine that can prove its goal risk in every game.

The climax of the attacking doldrums was the embarrassing home defeat against Hungary (0-1) in September.

Shortly before the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, national coach Hansi Flick still has to make a few adjustments.

DFB team: "You have to know that" - ex-captain Ballack thinks Havertz was given away in the storm

Similar to FC Bayern recently, the criticism of the DFB's striker problem is getting louder.

Michael Ballack has now also spoken out in the debate.

In the opinion of the ex-national team captain, Kai Havertz is given away in the striker.

“Kai proved – even before that at Chelsea – that he can fill the role of a striker well.

Still, it's a shame because I see him in a system that's optimal for him.

He can use his qualities even better there," Ballack told

.

Like many experts in the German national team, sees a storm problem: ex-captain Michael Ballack.

© IMAGO / Sport photo pack

"That means: Havertz may not shine as well in front as behind the tips.

You have to know that, the coach should also communicate that in such a way that he helps out in attack,” said the 46-year-old, who laced up his own shoes for Chelsea from 2006 to 2010.

Havertz had scored two goals for the national team in the Nations League game against England (3: 3).

Niclas Füllkrug in Qatar's World Cup squad?

Ballack: "You can always use strikers who score"

Regarding the debate about a possible nomination of Werder Bremen's Niclas Füllkrug for the World Cup squad, Ballack said: "Niclas Füllkrug has no international experience yet.

Hansi Flick will consider whether he fits into the system.

But of course he is currently the top scorer.

And strikers who score are always useful in the squad.”

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The former national player considers Marco Reus indispensable in the World Cup squad of the German team.

"You can hardly afford to leave out Marco for sporting reasons," said Ballack.

Ballack does not believe that the fact that Reus, who is currently injured, has a reputation for not winning anything is a legitimate argument against a nomination.

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"I can't just take players with me who have won everything, I can't get five together," said Ballack.

Reus is certainly very motivated.

"He really wants to play this World Cup because he has missed a few tournaments in the past due to injuries or voluntary resignation."