German Chancellor Friedrich Merz faced significant backlash after expressing pride in Germany’s national football team despite its early exit from the World Cup following a penalty shootout loss to Paraguay on Monday night.

Germany was eliminated in the round of 32 after falling 4-3 in penalties, marking the first time the team has lost a World Cup shootout. In a message posted on X, Merz commended the squad’s effort and team spirit, stating that the players had “thrilled our country” and that the nation remained proud of them despite the painful defeat.

However, his remarks sparked a strong negative response within Germany. Leading newspapers criticized the chancellor for appearing out of touch with public sentiment. The centre-right paper Die Welt published a headline declaring, “Germany isn’t Germany anymore,” reflecting widespread frustration over the national team's performance. Meanwhile, Bild, the country’s widely circulated tabloid, labeled the campaign a “disaster” and described Merz’s message as a misreading of the mood. Marion Horn, Bild’s editor-in-chief, called for both Merz and the national team’s manager, Julian Nagelsmann, to step down, lamenting, “German football is now living solely off its past reputation.”

The criticism of Merz extends beyond football, touching on broader domestic concerns. Germany has been grappling with economic difficulties, including rising unemployment, energy price surges, and challenges in its automotive sector, contributing to a sense of national malaise. The sporting disappointment was seen by some as emblematic of wider frustrations with the country’s current trajectory.

Adding to the controversy, Merz’s comments drew ridicule from abroad. Kirill Dmitriev, an economic adviser to Russian President Vladimir Putin, sarcastically noted on X that “Merz is always good at encouraging failure,” referencing the chancellor’s congratulatory message.

Germany’s early World Cup exit has ignited a wave of criticism and reflection as the nation confronts pressure to rebuild both on and off the field. Merz’s statement, intended as a gesture of support, instead highlighted the high expectations and strong emotions surrounding German football and its role in national identity.