The female DFB team faces another disappointing defeat on the horizon.
The German women's football team is facing a change in the defense as long-time defender and leader, Marina Hegering, is retiring from the national team. Joining her in retirement is goalkeeper Merle Frohms, who was demoted during the Olympics in Paris. New coach Christian Wück has his work cut out for him as he rebuilds the team.
Hegering, who made her debut at 28 and quickly became an integral part of the defense, is stepping down after playing 42 games for Germany. She described her decision as "feeling right and fitting" and added, "if someone had told me ten years ago that I would play 42 games for the national team, I would have thought them crazy." The 34-year-old will remain a dedicated fan of the German team.
Hegering's career was threatened by chronic heel problems, but her tenacity and strong tackling skills allowed her to continue playing until her retirement. Her contribution to the team was recognized by Wück who praised her as an "absolute performer" with "commitment, tackling strength, and the ability to recognize game situations." DFB sports director, Nia Künzer, also commended Hegering as a "strong personality" with "coaching skills, passion, professionalism, determination, and mental strength."
Wück will now have to rebuild the defense with Bibiane Schulze Solano (25) from Athletic Bilbao and Kathrin Hendrich (32/Wolfsburg) already integrated into the team by his predecessor, Horst Hrubesch. However, the team is still struggling to find a promising young defensive player.
Hegering will continue her football career as a player, having been selected as a part of the "Team of the Tournament" at the Euros in 2022. Her contract with Wolfsburg will expire at the end of the current season, and she will join the club's coaching staff.
Two years ago, her teammate Lena Oberdorf already identified Hegering as a potential future national team coach. "She's very vocal on the field and always demands 100%. She also has the understanding for it, which fits well," Oberdorf said at the time.
Two and a half weeks ago, Frohms announced her retirement after being demoted to backup goalkeeper at the Olympics in Paris. Wück attempted to persuade her to stay, but his efforts were unsuccessful. The future of captain Alexandra Popp (33) in the national team is still uncertain. Wück will make his debut as national team coach on October 25 against England at Wembley.
The retirement of defender Marina Hegering and goalkeeper Merle Frohms leaves a significant gap in the German women's soccer team, particularly in the defense. With Hegering's departure, the team will be missing a reliable leader and a formidable presence on the field.
