Jurgen Klopp aimed a cheeky dig at Arsenal after Germany's controversial World Cup exit to Paraguay, but made clear he is not interested in becoming the next head coach of his country's national team.
Germany's Controversial Exit
Germany were eliminated in the round of 32 after a dramatic penalty shoot-out following a 1-1 draw against unfancied Paraguay in Boston on Monday evening. The result means the four-time World champions still have not won a knockout game since lifting the trophy in 2014.
Germany were incensed that an extra-time winner by Jonathan Tah — who later missed the decisive penalty in the shoot-out — was disallowed after a VAR review. Referee Jalal Jayed ruled that Waldemar Anton had fouled goalkeeper Orlando Gill during the build-up to the corner.
Klopp's Dig at Arsenal
Speaking to MagentaTV, Klopp said: "If the goal is illegal, then Arsenal won't be English champions. They've scored 60% of their goals that way. We win the game when the ball goes in. So, of course, this is brutal."
Arsenal scored 25 set-piece goals in the Premier League last season and attracted criticism for their aggressive corner tactics, with several debatable strikes being allowed.
Pressure on Nagelsmann
Germany's exit has ramped up pressure on national team coach Julian Nagelsmann. Former Liverpool midfielder Dietmar Hamann is among pundits calling for the former Bayern Munich boss to quit. That has prompted speculation that Klopp could take charge of Germany, having not managed since leaving Liverpool two years ago. He is currently Head of Global Soccer for Red Bull.
Klopp on His Future
Addressing the possibility of becoming Germany boss, Klopp said: "I haven't thought about that yet. I've often been in that situation myself as a coach, where a big dream has been shattered. I understand that when people talk about the national coach, my name is mentioned. But it's not the right moment to talk about it, especially not with me. I have a job that I really enjoy. And as far as I know, it's not a part-time job. The fact is, Germany was eliminated today, and this is not the moment for me to think about Jurgen Klopp's future."
