German football VP attacks Barcelona star for his performances with national team: “Less talented twin”

The German national team has been going through a difficult phase for a while now and is attracting a lot of criticism six months before the UEFA Euro 2024.

Germany will be hosting the quadrennial tournament this time out, but heading into it, their form is hardly inspiring confidence.

Things have not been clicking all too well, with Die Mannschaft winning just three of their 11 matches in 2023 (D2, L6).

Barcelona’s very own Ilkay Gundogan has been installed as the captain of the Germany national team by manager Julian Nagelsmann.

But neither the results, nor the midfielder’s own performances, are convincing the fans and the administration.

In fact, in a recent interview with German publication Hannoversche Allgemeine Zeitung (h/t SPORT), Ralph-Uwe Schaffert, the vice-president of the German Football Federation (DFB) took a swipe at Gundogan over his contrasting form for club and country.

“Ilkay Gundogan, for example, strangely enough, plays outstandingly for his club and then when you see him in the national team, you wonder: Did he send his less talented twin brother? I don’t understand,” the DFB official said.

Doubting Germany’s chances at the Euros, he added: “I’m totally conflicted about the Euros next year. In terms of potential, we can go far. But demands, expectations and reality are so far apart at the moment – it’s absolutely inexplicable for me. I don’t think it’s the coach’s fault.”

While things might not be working well for Gundogan at the international level, he has been impressing heavily for Barcelona.

Having joined the club in the summer, the veteran midfielder has become an integral part of Xavi’s plans and is the highest-utilised player by the manager this term.

The 33-year-old has produced a return of two goals and six assists from 24 games, and his influence on the proceedings goes beyond those numbers.

The veteran midfielder will be hoping that he can help Germany turn things around and lead them to the Euro triumph on their homeland next year.