German Soccer Gets New Director in Controversial Decision
February 8, 2006
Klinsmann had baffled Germany by expressing his preference for Bernhard Peters, who led the country to the world title in field hockey in 2002.
But the federation announced it was appointing Sammer, a Euro 96 winner with Germany who has coached Bundesliga clubs VfB Stuttgart and Borussia Dortmund, to a five-year contract.
DFB President Theo Zwanziger hailed the choice of Sammer, an uncompromising defender in his playing days.
"With him we have not only a personality who comes from the world of football, but also one who stands for innovation," he said.
However, the DFB did not rule out a role within the coaching structure for Peters.
"Between now and Oct. 1, the DFB will propose to Bernhard Peters that he uses his know-how and the knowledge he has gained at the elite of a different sport," it said in a statement.
Klinsmann said it remained to be seen whether Peters could still come to the DFB.
"It's a positive thing that soccer seems willing to open up, but it will depend on what kind of tasks are there for him," he told DPA news agency, adding that he would "swallow the pill" and concentrate on coaching the team until the World Cup, which starts in June.