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The thought of forming a “European Republic” used to be merely a federalist fantasy. But it has now become more of a reality after gaining Mr Macron’s backing - much to the chagrin of the German Chancellor, often dubbed 'the mother of Europe'. Political scientist Ulrike Guérot, founder of Berlin’s European Democracy Lab, says Mrs Merkel has been “evasive” on whether she supported the move. The Chancellor’s instinct might be to back her ally Mr Macron, but she is hesitant, fearing how German voters will react, Ms Guérot claimed.

GETTY Macron and Merkel are at a stand-off over Europe's future

The pair are now in a stand-off over the future of the EU. However the French premier could now be able to influence Mrs Merkel through her coalition partners. SPD leader Martin Schulz, who could go into coalition with Mrs Merkel in the coming months, publicly backed a “United States of Europe” in his speech to the party conference. The French President now hopes to influence Mrs Merkel through the SPD, and has the ear of its leader.

Ms Guérot said: “Having not yet received a concrete answer, Macron is working towards a Grand Coalition in Germany by talking to Martin Schulz. The SPD would have an open ear for his plans.” She expects Mrs Merkel will become more and more reluctant to form that Grand Coalition if the SPD’s support for full European political union continues. Ms Guérot said: “To now shake Macron's hand would equal a stab-in-the-back legend. Like a betrayal. Every handshake in favour of Macron means three percent more for the AfD. “Because some are beginning to understand this, forming a coalition is so difficult.” “The Europe-issue is secretly on the table and everyone is afraid to give a European answer.

Getty SPD leader Martin Schulz has backed a 'United States of Europe'