Weekend Warm-up: Are you worried about Germany's World Cup hopes?; Julian Nagelsmann's "Shadow Team"; Bundesliga predictions; Throwing it back to Soundgarden; Reviewing Task; and MORE!

"After the 2-0 defeat to Slovakia, DFB director Rudi Völler says that head coach Julian Nagelsmann needed some time to let his emotions get the better of him for a few minutes (via Sport Bild): The defeat in Bratislava was particularly frustrating. The national coach was visibly angry after the game. Völler reported: "You have to give him the freedom to explode sometimes. That's what he did in the dressing room after the game. He needs five minutes to let off steam.""

"Völler once again emphasized how much the DFB values Nagelsmann's work: "The DFB is incredibly happy to have Julian. He is very strong rhetorically, does good training work, and has a demanding manner. He is a top coach." At the same time, Völler called for patience, especially during the current qualifying phase: "You have to give the coach the freedom to try a few things, even if they are qualifying matches.""

Germany endured a disappointing international break capped by a 2-0 defeat to Slovakia that frustrated fans and staff. DFB director Rudi Völler described Nagelsmann as visibly angry and said the coach needed a few minutes to let off steam after the loss. The DFB remains united behind Nagelsmann, rejecting any coaching discussion and expressing confidence in the team. Völler praised Nagelsmann's rhetorical strength, training work, and demanding manner, and called for patience while allowing tactical experimentation during qualifying. The Slovakia result prompted lineup changes and mention of a so-called "shadow team" with expected World Cup contenders and surprising inclusions.

Read at Bavarian Football Works