Germany has decided to drop the name 'Die Mannschaft'

The decision is made, the German men's national team will abandon the name 'Die Mannschaft', which in Italian simply means, the team. A decision taken unanimously because although it perfectly identifies the German selection abroad, it has been judged too arrogant at home, where it is no longer well liked. A name that had been introduced a year after Germany won its fourth World Cup in Brazil decided in extra time by Mario Gotze's goal. A nickname that was present practically everywhere, from social channels to the coach, and which was now an integral and fundamental part of the national team's visual identity.

"It is a fact that among the fans of this country it is viewed critically and causes discussion", these are the words of DFB president Bernd Neuendorf that leave no room for further scenarios. A name that has accompanied the selection for seven years - almost uniquely - will disappear once and for all and will not accompany the national team even in the next games to be played in Qatar next December. An issue supported in Germany by almost everyone, even the managing director of Borussia Dortmund, Hans-Joachim Watzke said he was in favour of abolishing it, thus shelving a name that made the national team special, the only one to have 'an alternative name'.