Jurgen Klopp has ignited a war of words after his punditry at the World Cup drew sharp responses from Germany boss Julian Nagelsmann and legendary midfielder Lothar Matthaus.
Nagelsmann Hits Back at Klopp's Comments
The former Liverpool manager, now working as a pundit for German broadcaster Magenta TV, was previewing Germany's World Cup opener against Curacao when he made a remark about Nagelsmann's future. Klopp said: "Luckily, Julian Nagelsmann is still picking the team – for now."
When asked about these comments in a press conference, Nagelsmann initially expressed surprise before turning the question back on the reporter, who described the remark as "a little prickly." Nagelsmann then curtly replied: "Good. Then. Next question."
Matthaus Criticises Klopp's Team Selection Advice
Klopp, alongside Bayern Munich legend Thomas Muller, also suggested that Stuttgart star Deniz Undav should start ahead of Bayern playmaker Jamal Musiala in the opening match. This drew criticism from Lothar Matthaus, who told Sport Bild: "I was very surprised when I saw that Jurgen Klopp and Thomas Muller advised playing Deniz Undav instead of Jamal Musiala in the opening match. I accept their opinion, but I don't want to let it stand. I feel that lacks sensitivity. Jurgen Klopp, of all people, should know better."
Matthaus added: "To have a successful World Cup, Germany needs the quality of a Musiala. That's why he needs to be given trust and playing time. Klopp's comments aren't exactly making Nagelsmann's job any easier. I'd like to see what Klopp would have said if an expert had advised him to bench one of his regular starters before an important Champions League match. Such interference isn't well received, especially among fellow coaches."
Klopp left his role as Liverpool boss in 2024 and now serves as head of global football for Red Bull, though he has been frequently linked with a return to management.
