World Cup 2022: Germany Squad Rift Reported Over Controversial Protests

• The German squad is reported to have been on different pages over their FIFA protests
• The country's FA protested in the opening game against Japan over the armband ban
• Die Mannschaft were knocked out of the 2022 World Cup tournament in the group stages

It has now emerged that there might have been a rift within the German squad during their short time in Qatar.

Germany exited the World Cup in the group stage for the second tournament running, after yet another shambolic performance on the world's grandest stage.

They began their campaign with a shocking loss to Japan, before holding Spain to a draw and beating Costa Rica. However, four points were not enough to see them through to the next round.

Before their opening game against Japan, Germany were among the teams involved in a spat with FIFA over the controversial human rights issues in Qatar. The Europeans had wanted captain, Manuel Neuer to don that One Love armband - a request rejected by FIFA.

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The squad then decided to cover their mouths during team photos before the Japan game to signal their protests. Sport Bible reports that some members were against the idea though.

German TV presenter Esther Sedlaczek had alluded during an interview with former international Oliver Bierhoff that not everyone was in agreement with the FA's decision.

The squad showed unity in their three games despite their on-pitch struggles.

However, the future of Hansi Flick is under considerable scrutiny, with other senior players considering their futures with the team as well.

Jamal Musiala apologises

Sports Brief has also reported that Germany and Bayern Munich youngster Jamal Musiala broke his silence following his country's painful exit from the 2022 World Cup.

Coach Flick's side were tipped to reach the latter stages of the competitions, but a dreadful start saw them crash out in spectacular fashion.

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The four-time World Cup winners were stunned by Japan in their opening match, losing 2-1.

Despite dominating most of the match and leading 1-0 for large parts, the Samurai Blue scored twice in the second half to produce a massive upset.

Belgium rocked by similar problems

Sports Brief also reported that new details continue to emerge over Belgium's uninspiring start to the 2022 FIFA World Cup campaign, as Roberto Martinez struggles with squad unity.

Martinez has admitted that there are some issues within the squad, which came before and after the Red Devils were knocked out of the Mundial.

His big stars clashed in the dressing room and made controversial remarks to the media, and one of the new findings indicates that Manchester City and Real Madrid stars do not speak despite sharing a dressing room.