Jurgen Klopp Was Approached for England Role Before Tuchel Hire
The Football Association made a direct approach to Jurgen Klopp regarding the England manager's position before ultimately appointing his compatriot Thomas Tuchel in October 2024, according to the German coach's agent. This revelation sheds new light on the FA's search for a high-profile successor to Gareth Southgate, with the governing body seeking a blockbuster name to lead the Three Lions into the expanded 2026 World Cup in North America.
The FA's Pursuit of Elite Management Talent
Following Southgate's successful tenure, which established new standards for the national team setup, the FA embarked on an ambitious recruitment campaign focused on securing what they perceived as world-class managerial talent. While Tuchel eventually accepted what many consider English football's most challenging job, the process involved extensive soundings with several elite coaches, including Manchester City's Pep Guardiola and, as now confirmed, former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp.
Klopp's representative has indicated that his client received a formal offer but declined the opportunity, choosing to honor his commitment to take a substantial break from frontline coaching after leaving Anfield. This decision allowed Tuchel to step into the role, where he has since overseen a flawless World Cup qualifying campaign with eight consecutive victories and no goals conceded.
How Klopp's England Might Have Differed
Football analysts have speculated extensively about how the national team might have developed under Klopp's leadership. Mirror Sport's Chief Football Writer John Cross suggests that while both German coaches share similar career trajectories and tactical intensity, Klopp's approach would likely have been more overtly attacking.
"Klopp's 'heavy metal football' philosophy would have translated into a more adventurous England side," Cross notes. "The players would undoubtedly have responded positively to his charismatic management style, though Tuchel has successfully cultivated strong squad buy-in through his flexible tactical approach."
Chief Sports Writer Andy Dunn emphasizes that Klopp would have built his team around Jude Bellingham as the central creative force, rather than allowing the Real Madrid midfielder to become embroiled in media controversies. Additionally, Klopp's England would have featured a hard-pressing system with greater defensive vulnerability compared to Tuchel's more structured approach.
Potential Winners and Losers in Klopp's Setup
The selection decisions under Klopp would have created distinct beneficiaries and casualties within the England squad:
- Trent Alexander-Arnold would have been a definitive winner, with Klopp's well-documented admiration for the Liverpool full-back ensuring his central role in the setup. Klopp previously criticized England's utilization of Alexander-Arnold in midfield positions.
- Jude Bellingham would have enjoyed enhanced status as the team's driving force under Klopp's management.
- Jarrod Bowen might have received preferential treatment over Bukayo Saka given Klopp's documented appreciation for the West Ham forward.
- Marcus Rashford could have struggled with Klopp's demanding pressing requirements, while Jordan Henderson, despite being a former Klopp favorite, might no longer possess the necessary energy for such an intensive system.
World Cup Prospects Under Alternative Management
Both analysts agree that Tuchel has proven an excellent appointment, with his tactical adaptability particularly suited to international tournament football. While Klopp would have generated greater media interest and player motivation, his impatient, all-action style might have proven less effective against elite opposition in the knockout stages.
England enter the 2026 World Cup as pre-tournament favorites under Tuchel's guidance, having demonstrated both defensive solidity and attacking variety throughout qualification. The German's experience in winning the Champions League with Chelsea provides valuable tournament pedigree, though questions remain about his handling of high-profile players like Bellingham following controversial public comments.
Ultimately, while Klopp's England would have been entertaining and potentially more attacking, Tuchel's tactical sophistication and proven ability to adapt to different challenges may better equip the Three Lions for World Cup success in North America's demanding conditions.
