Jurgen Klopp has addressed the latest speculation linking him with the Germany job in the immediate aftermath of their chastening World Cup exit at the hands of Paraguay. The former Liverpool manager, working as a pundit throughout the tournament, was on duty as the Germans crashed out in the Round of 32 despite being heavy favourites, losing in a dramatic penalty shootout.
Klopp leaves door ajar for Germany role
Germany's failure to live up to expectations has thrust manager Julian Nagelsmann's future into serious doubt. Klopp, who decided to step away from management, has been perennially linked with the role. His latest comments appear to leave the door slightly ajar for the 59-year-old.
"I haven't thought about that yet. I understand that when the national coach position is discussed, my name is mentioned in some form," Klopp said. "But it's not the moment to really talk about it. There's nothing to say about it. I have a job that I enjoy very much. As far as I know, it's not a part-time job."
Apology to Nagelsmann adds intrigue
An interesting subplot is the apology Klopp issued to Nagelsmann earlier in the tournament. Speaking on Magenta TV, Klopp said "luckily, Julian Nagelsmann is picking the team, still," which some perceived as a hint that the former Bayern Munich chief was on borrowed time. Even Klopp's on-air colleague Thomas Muller saw the irony, quipping: "Kloppo, we are still in June. You are already in September!"
Klopp later apologised to Nagelsmann, branding himself an "idiot" for the comment. Nagelsmann insisted he did not expect an apology but has had to contend with constant chatter around Klopp and his position.
Nagelsmann refuses to walk away
Despite the disastrous World Cup campaign, Nagelsmann has no intentions of quitting. "I am not someone who runs away," Nagelsmann said in his post-match press conference. "This is not the first time this has happened, and there are some things about today that need to be changed. But if the DFB wants me to continue, I am going to continue."
"I know the mechanics of football. I know how the industry works. I know a lot of people will want me to leave, but I would love to continue if the DFB wants me to."
