Klinsmann Gauntlet Used
Kahn, the beast, was hit hard by Klinsmann’s gauntlet choosing Jens Lehmann over Kahn, as the number 1 goalkeeper in the upcoming World Cup competition.
This was a response on the pressure, Bayern Munich commercial manager Uli Hoeness has put on his shoulders; because of his delay on choosing between the two of them. The manager accused Klinsmann in installing psychological terror on Kahn that resulted in his recent blunders.
Kahn’s extreme disappointment allowed him to contemplate on retiring from international games. If so, we may have seen his last game in Germany’s 4-1 win over United States. His blunder on that game is said to have sealed his fate, though Klinsmann said the decision has been made based on observations between the two players for the last several months.
I feel deeply saddened as a big supporter and fan of Oliver Kahn. I believe in him despite his current rib injury and recent flawed games and I am sure that he will exceptionally perform in the World Cup given his experience and talent. He should be able to get to that level once confidence is bestowed on him.
Even the best people in the world whether coming from the world of sports, entertainment, or corporate environment falls down when confidence has diminished. Kahn is no exception. Kahn’s poor performance just shows what kind of people development skills Klinsmann have.
Sure Lehmann is having an excellent year; but he has nothing to lose unlike Kahn. He doesn’t feel the same pressure as Kahn has in the past several months. Stripping Kahn of Germany’s captaincy position added to his psychological distractions.
How Klinsmann’s decision shape up remains to be seen. How Lehmann performs in the World Cup competition is an interesting watch.
April 10th, 2006 at 5:02 pm
[…] This is good news! Kahn has reported he will not retire in international competitions following the disappointing decision. He stressed Germany needs him to be there during the World Cup games. […]
December 22nd, 2006 at 1:19 am
[…] What the hell has Klinsmann done to Germany? I doubt Klinsmann listen to advices given by players and everyone else given his track record of making decisions despite the public opposing them similar to kicking Kahn out of the position. But he is the coach of the team and he surely have to make decisions on what he feels is right. […]