One day before the first German group game against Japan, Thomas Müller addressed the fans with a detailed statement. The Bayern professional explained how he evaluates the processes surrounding the waiver of the One Love captain's armband.

Since the DFB gave in to FIFA's urging and backed down, accusations of cowardice and spinelessness have been raised. Müller could "understand and accept this criticism", but emphasized that he did not share this view. The DFB "took a stand and clearly expressed its attitude towards FIFA."

The 33-year-old also defended the players: "Anyone who expects us footballers to completely leave our path as athletes and give up our sporting dreams, for which we have worked all our footballer's lives, in order to position ourselves even more politically, he will be disappointed."

Instead, he focused on Fifa and explained that their actions "we cannot understand in any way". The "strange actions and statements" of the world association not only in relation to the One Love campaign, but in general to the World Cup in Qatar "occupy us players and the entire team," Müller continued.

But now it's about "inspiring our German football nation with team spirit, unity and football finesse". Despite the unrest, the 2014 World Champion is hoping for the supporters' full support.

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This article was originally published on 90min.de as a one-love binding: Müller defends the DFB team.