After working diligently behind the scenes as Jürgen Klinsmann's assistant during the 2006 FIFA World Cup, Germany coach Joachim Löw has maintained a low profile since his promotion, steering Die Mannschaft through UEFA EURO 2008™ qualifying with minimal fuss and in record time. This summer, however, the 48-year-old will be unable to avoid the limelight as he bids to fulfil the immense expectations surrounding one of the tournament favourites in Austria and Switzerland.
World Cup success
Germany's unexpected third-place finish two years ago was inspired by Klinsmann's skills as leader and motivator, yet Löw's influence on tactics and team selection has also been acknowledged as a key factor. According to Ottmar Hitzfeld, "Klinsmann's philosophy was Löw's philosophy", while Klinsmann himself admitted: "Joachim has always been much more than an assistant coach to me." Löw certainly earned respect for his astute mind and innovative coaching methods, though many questioned whether the former journeyman midfielder had sufficient stature for such a prominent role.
Positive
The doubters were quickly silenced. Germany won seven of their first eight qualifiers, continuing to display the positive, free-flowing football that had illuminated the World Cup and becoming the first country other than the co-hosts to reach the UEFA EURO 2008™ finals. "We maintained a high level in qualifying," Löw told uefa.com "Overall I'm pleased because the team have continued on an upward curve for the last two or three years."
Favourites' tag
Germany found the net 35 times in 12 qualifiers, a goals-to-game ratio the attack-minded Löw would love to repeat in the summer. "People in Germany expect us first of all to play good, attacking football," said Löw, who has been rewarded with a two-year contract extension. "But they'll also want us to play with our hearts and to go a long way. Germany are always one of the favourites, but that's fine. It's something you have to accept."
Klinsmann praise
Löw's calm, understated manner contrasts vividly with the energetic approach of his predecessor, but the former VfB Stuttgart boss insists his spell working alongside Klinsmann was invaluable. "I really benefited from those two years," Löw said. "We formed a good team because we complemented each other well. He was a good leader and we shared the same ideas about how the team should play."
Meticulous organisation
If the early performances under Löw closely resembled those of the World Cup campaign, the Schonau-born trainer has since stamped his mark. The current side is extremely well-drilled, with each player acutely aware of his duties in the 4-4-2 formation, meaning any individual can be replaced without overly disrupting the system. With key men such as Michael Ballack, Miroslav Klose, Torsten Frings and Lukas Podolski missing during qualification, such meticulous organisation has proved vital.
'Great experience'
A mounting injury list did eventually take its toll last October, however, as a team shorn of Ballack and Klose lost 3-0 at home to the Czech Republic – a result which cost them top spot in Group D. Löw knows how important it will be to have as many leading players fit as possible in June. "This is the one thing that gives me a headache," he said. "These players have great experience and without them, it's difficult for the team to keep their continuity. I hope they will all be available."
Ballack 'irreplaceable'
Encouragingly, Ballack has overcome his recurring ankle problems and showed fine form for Chelsea FC in the latter stages of the season. "He was injured for more than half a year, but worked very hard to regain his strength," said Löw. "We're pleased to have him back because he's our captain and has great experience. He's always shown his quality in big tournaments so I regard him as one of my irreplaceable players."
Löw wary
With Ballack as talisman, Löw's men will be tipped to cruise through a group featuring Poland, Croatia and Austria, who were beaten 3-0 by Germany in February. Löw remains wary of all three Group B opponents, though, saying: "Poland and Croatia finished above some strong teams in qualifying and they're both much better than in 2006. As for Austria, they'll be a different proposition this time because their supporters will give them extra energy."
'Great atmosphere'
But while Austrian fans will outnumber their German counterparts in the third group match in Vienna on 16 June, the three-time European champions will also be counting on strong support through the tournament. "The fact the games are being played so close to home and in German-speaking countries will encourage our supporters to come and watch," Löw said. "Hopefully there'll be a great atmosphere, with lots of emotion, passion and joy, just like when the World Cup was in Germany." With the unflappable Löw in charge, those travelling fans can be confident of having even more to celebrate this time.
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