Julian Nagelsmann has revealed that he did not expect an apology from Jurgen Klopp after the former Liverpool manager joked about taking over the German national team. Klopp, who is now head of global soccer for Red Bull, made the comment during Magenta Sport's live broadcast of Germany's 7-1 World Cup victory over Curacao.
Klopp's Controversial Remark
While discussing the starting line-up, Klopp said: 'Luckily, it's Julian Nagelsmann who's picking the team,' before adding cheekily: 'Still.' The remark drew laughter from co-presenter Thomas Muller, but criticism from former Germany international Stefan Effenberg, who called it 'unacceptable' for a broadcast watched by millions.
Klopp's Apology
Speaking to Nagelsmann after the match, Klopp apologised, saying: 'I could have punched myself in the face for that. It just slipped out casually and has absolutely no relevance. I'll be 59 on Tuesday and I'm still an idiot.' He added: 'We are completely on your side, whatever you do with this. Nothing will come of it that is intended to disrupt the process.'
Nagelsmann's Response
Nagelsmann dismissed the incident during a pre-match press conference ahead of Germany's game against Ivory Coast. 'I did not expect an apology from Jurgen Klopp for his comments and I also don't listen to everybody talking about our team. That's not possible,' he said.
Related Developments
Klopp was also notably absent from Ole Werner's farewell letter after the RB Leipzig coach was sacked. Klopp, who was involved in the decision, praised Werner's work but said a change was needed for the future.
