Liverpool legend John Barnes has suggested that Jurgen Klopp's anticipated appointment as head coach of Germany could mark the end of his managerial career. Klopp, who secured seven trophies including the Champions League and Premier League during nine years at Liverpool, is poised to return to the dugout two years after leaving Anfield.
Klopp's potential move to Germany
Since early 2025, Klopp has served as Red Bull's global head of soccer. However, following Julian Nagelsmann's resignation after Germany's World Cup exit at the last-32 stage, Klopp is expected to take over the national side. Barnes, recently voted No. 5 in Liverpool's 100 greatest players, thinks this could be Klopp's final role.
Speaking to Betfred, Barnes said: "Well it depends on how long he plans to work with Germany. He’s obviously going to be with them for the next four years and he’ll be 63 by then, so you don’t know if he will want to move back into club management after that."
Club vs international management
Barnes questioned Klopp's suitability for international football, noting his need for total player influence. "Jurgen is a manager that needs to completely influence all of his players in terms of his style, philosophy, attitude and commitment. Most international managers don’t do that. Most international players are influenced by their club managers, so there are certain managers suited to club football and some to international and I’ve always thought that Jurgen is better suited to club football."
He added: "Jurgen’s character will inspire those Germany players, but only time will tell how successful he is with them."
Klopp confirms talks with DFB
Klopp confirmed last week he is in discussions with the German FA (DFB) about succeeding Nagelsmann, who stepped down after a penalty shootout loss to Paraguay. "Yes, I can confirm the talks," Klopp told Magenta. "Things moved pretty quickly. Julian stepped down. The DFB are looking for a successor. And they’re talking to me."
He acknowledged his existing contract with Red Bull but expressed interest. "I have an existing contract with Red Bull. I've said many times how much I enjoy this job. As a person, I usually honour contracts. But I've also made it clear that I'm interested in talks with the DFB."
Intensive discussions ahead
Klopp emphasized the need for thorough talks with Red Bull CEO Oliver Mintzlaff. "I also have to speak with Oliver Mintzlaff. He’s my employer. We’ve already touched on a few things. I assume he won’t stand in the way. I’ve been there for 19 months. It was an intense time."
He concluded: "I’m ready. Once the talks begin, your mind starts racing. We have to change things fundamentally. There will have to be intensive discussions, because, of course, the problems we currently have cannot be pinned only on Julian Nagelsmann. Julian is an exceptional coach, and he will be able to prove that time and again throughout his coaching career."
