Jürgen Klopp criticised as Mourinho weighs Vinicius puzzle

Jürgen Klopp is facing growing criticism in Germany after his side failed to build on its recent victory over Serbia. The pressure comes early in his tenure, with the national team still struggling to produce consistent results and the coach’s positive assessment of the latest performance at odds with the reaction around him.

Germany drew 0-0 in Greece and remain third in their group. After four matches, Klopp’s team have collected five points from a possible 12 and won only once. That record has prompted sharp assessments in Spain and France, where the team’s lack of progress and continued frustration have become the main focus.

José Mourinho also has a selection problem to solve at Real Madrid as Vinicius Jr returns from international duty short of his best. The Brazilian scored once in three matches, was taken off at half-time against India and produced limited impact in one-on-one situations. His club record is one goal and two assists in eight games, while competition from Diomandé is increasing. Mourinho has previously demonstrated that Vinicius can be removed or have his starting status reconsidered when performances fall below expectations. Real Madrid need an improvement before the meeting with Barcelona on October 25.