Jürgen Klopp has said he is “really happy” to begin his new chapter as Germany’s national-team manager, expressing confidence that the job will be a rewarding experience as he prepares to guide the side through a fresh period after a disappointing World Cup run.
Key takeaways
- Jürgen Klopp has been appointed as Germany’s new head coach following a poor showing at the latest World Cup.
- He takes over from Julian Nagelsmann after Germany were eliminated in the round of 32 by Paraguay on penalties.
- Klopp previously led both Liverpool and Borussia Dortmund and has now moved to international management.
- Before this appointment, Klopp worked for Red Bull as global head of soccer.
- In his first remarks, Klopp highlighted the ability of the national team to unite supporters and vowed to develop a team built on togetherness and patience.
Appointment follows another World Cup disappointment
The German Football Association confirmed on Friday that Klopp will be responsible for steering the national team into a new era after yet another World Cup campaign failed to meet expectations.
Klopp replaces Julian Nagelsmann, who stepped away after Germany’s penalty shootout loss to Paraguay in the round of 32. The defeat added to a longer pattern of struggle at major tournaments, following earlier group-stage exits in 2018 and 2022.
Klopp sets out his vision for the job
Klopp said he believes the role is special because the Germany team can bring the nation together in a way few other things can. He noted that the connection between the squad and supporters is what makes the task meaningful.
He also expressed gratitude for his time at Red Bull, where he spent the previous year and a half as global head of soccer. Klopp credited the openness of the arrangement that made the transition possible.
Looking ahead, Klopp said he is ready to take on what he described as a “special task” in German football. He added that the team will be built with humility and patience, with a focus on developing a side that competes for one another, enjoys playing football, and earns the full trust of the country’s people.
