Germany’s men’s national soccer team decided to change its name from “die Mannschaft” (the team) on Thursday. The country claimed that while the term may be well-known abroad, it was not well-received at home.
Following Germany’s fourth World Cup victory in Brazil in 2014, the name was formally adopted as part of the branding for the national team.
However, a first-round exit from the 2018 World Cup and a round-of-16 exit from the 2017 European Championship did little to help the team’s reputation among disgruntled German supporters.
Officials from soccer have criticised the term for being too haughty and disrespectful to other national teams, including Hans-Joachim Watzke, CEO of Borussia Dortmund.
According to a recent poll, it was time to give it up, according to DFB President Bernd Neuendorf.
The name “die Mannschaft” has a high level of recognition, especially abroad where it stands for team spirit and success, according to polls and analysis, Neuendorf said in a statement.
However, it is also true that among fans in this country, it is criticised and brings up strong feelings.
Germany has qualified for the 2018 World Cup, which will be held in Qatar in November or December.
