Rummenigge: Why 'amateur' DFB needs Lahm's help

Germany's former captain Philipp Lahm poses with the trophy during the closing ceremony prior to the Russia 2018 World Cup final match between France and Croatia at the Luzhniki Stadium in Moscow on July 15, 2018. PHOTO | GABRIEL BOUYS |

What you need to know:

  • Germany suffered a humiliating group-stage exit in Russia after defeats to Mexico and South Korea, becoming the third defending champions in a row to suffer such a fate after Italy in 2010 and Spain in 2014.

The German Football Association (DFB) should ask Philipp Lahm to help solve the problems brought about by a miserable World Cup showing, says Karl-Heinz Rummenigge.

Germany suffered a humiliating group-stage exit in Russia after defeats to Mexico and South Korea, becoming the third defending champions in a row to suffer such a fate after Italy in 2010 and Spain in 2014.

Speaking to reporters on Friday, Rummenigge, who won 95 caps in a 10-year career with the national team said: "The DFB is really only full of amateurs.

"I am not convinced that there are the right approaches in place [to deal with crisis], but it does not surprise me either.

"I think Philipp Lahm is a perfect match for the DFB. It might be an interesting solution to install Philipp Lahm as vice president there to give the bureau a bit more professionalism."

Rummenigge also questioned the DFB's treatment of Mesut Ozil, whose controversial meeting with Turkish President Recep Erdogan created a media storm before the tournament.

Ozil has borne the brunt of the criticism for Germany's failure, something Rummenigge believes is harsh on the Arsenal playmaker.

He added: "Mesut Ozil is the only scapegoat? Sorry, but I think that's a bit far-fetched."