Operational changes
Over the last 12 months or so, Low constantly has shuffled the operational pack, alternating between a 3-4-3 – his favourite system – a 4-3-3 and 4-2-3-1. Low has come in for much criticism for his use of three centre-backs and the naysayers do make a valid point. When, as has often been the case, the wing-backs do not push high enough, the set-up effectively becomes a five-man defensive wall – a shape which is light years away from the sort of risk-taking football Low used to encourage. Germany’s approach play has become disjointed and sluggish, with key central midfield regulators Toni Kroos and Joshua Kimmich playing a little too deep.
In response to his detractors, Low argues that after years of using a back four as his default formation, everyone had worked Germany out, enjoying success by sitting back and waiting to counter. He wants Germany to be more flexible, adding that the most important factor is attacking at pace. Nonetheless, with recalls for Hummels and Muller looking likely, reverting to a 4-3-3 seems the most practical system.