Hansi Flick criticises Niklas Süle: “I want him to take a step forward in his attitude and mentality”
By Tushar Bahl
Hansi Flick has commented on Niklas Süle’s absence from the Germany squad, saying that the Borussia Dortmund defender is leaving a lot to be desired.
Niklas Süle was the surprise omission from the Germany squad for their upcoming friendly matches against Ukraine, Poland and Colombia. And Hansi Flick has now revealed why he did not include the Borussia Dortmund defender in his squad.
In an interview with the Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung, the Germany head coach said that Süle has great potential but there is also plenty of room for improvement.
"“It’s the job of me and my coaching team to make sure that every player realizes their full potential. For me, Niki can be one of the best centre-backs there is. His potential is huge. But I think he’s still leaving a lot to be desired. I want him to take a step forward in terms of his attitude and mentality.”"
Flick’s comments come as a bit of a surprise, considering Süle is such an important part of the Borussia Dortmund squad. The 27 year old left Bayern Munich for the Black and Yellows last summer and immediately established himself as a leader in the BVB squad. He made a total of 41 appearances in his debut season for BVB and played a key role in their Bundesliga title bid.
Flick, who also coached Süle at Bayern Munich, said that the centre-back often doesn’t need to play to the best of his ability in the Bundesliga. He added that he wants the former Hoffenheim defender to have the ambition to make the most of his potential.
"“I was 90% satisfied (with Süle at the World Cup). But the ten percent that’s missing is what counts. That’s what matters to me. In the Bundesliga, even 80% can be enough, especially given his quality. But there’s a danger in that. I think every national team player should have the ambition to make the most of his potential. Getting away with less – that’s not my mentality.”"
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Niklas Süle, who has won 45 caps for Germany, last featured for Hansi Flick’s side at the 2022 FIFA World Cup. He was rested from the Germany squad for the international break in March, and has now been left out again.