Germany's collapse at the World Cup in Russia the following month meant the final act of Lƶw's long tenure would be a rebuild.
Germany's showing in Russia was its worst World Cup campaign since 1938, and there's been more unwanted history since.
Losing to North Macedonia ended a 20-year, 35-game unbeaten run for the national team in World Cup qualifying.
AdInjuries have played their part, too, leading Lƶw to use defensive midfielder Emre Can at left back and right back in successive World Cup qualifiers.
Lƶw has done some useful groundwork for his successor, like persuading 18-year-old Bayern forward Jamal Musiala to choose Germany over England.