Toni Kroos takes aim at Germany squad and warns of World Cup exit against Paraguay unless two major issues are solved

Defeat exposes veteran lineup

Germany comfortably secured top spot in Group E following a resounding

Kroos demands gritty approach

Expectations were sky-high for Jamal Musiala and Florian Wirtz heading into the tournament, but both playmakers struggled as their dribbling threat was neutralised by Ecuador's physical approach. Speaking on his

Kroos stated: "It has to be nasty to play against us, meaning we need to be capable of defending well and being gritty. We aren't doing that yet. And we need [Jamal] Musiala and [Florian] Wirtz in top form - which we don't have right now.

"If both of these things don't change, we won't last much longer. We used to have matches where we played poorly too - like against Algeria. But we were still able to win those bad games. I don't think this current team has that in them.

"This is a group that gives everything. However, I don't agree with the coach saying that [complacency] had absolutely nothing to do with it. You always have that in the back of your mind when you've already qualified. You can't just block it out; it's completely human. We are simply not a physical team."

Podolski urges quiet reflection

While Nagelsmann defended the application of his players after rotated selections, former forward Podolski agreed that the unexpected setback could serve as a valuable wake-up call. Despite acknowledging their structural shortcomings, both veterans maintained faith in the squad's ultimate potential if they successfully navigate the initial knockout hurdles.

Podolski added: "Maybe a defeat like this is a good thing. To get a slap in the face. So that everyone says: 'Alright, let's calm down now.' Maybe a loss like this does some good, so that everyone takes a moment to reflect in their own room. We shouldn't just talk everything down now. Let's push the boys."

Kroos concluded: "And I stand by my statement: I believe that if it comes to a match against France, if everything clicks, we can beat them."

Knockout phase challenges await

Despite the recent disappointing performance,