Jürgen Klopp has been confirmed as Germany's new head coach, vowing to restore the nation's pride in its football team while warning he will walk away without compensation if the media invade his family's privacy. The former Liverpool manager replaces Julian Nagelsmann, who departed on 3 July, and has signed a contract until after the 2030 World Cup. Klopp described the role as the pinnacle of his career and suggested it will be his last in top-level football.
At his unveiling press conference, the 59-year-old apologised for a joke made about Nagelsmann while working as a TV pundit during the World Cup, calling it “one of the worst ‘funny’ remarks I have ever made.” He has not spoken to Nagelsmann since the appointment was announced but wished him well. Klopp also criticised the treatment of his predecessor and of Thomas Tuchel in England, insisting he will not tolerate similar behaviour towards his family.
Klopp promised to implement an expansive, high-intensity style of play, acknowledging that Germany are not currently among the world's elite. “Are we as good as France? No,” he said, but insisted they can still win. He emphasised the need for a unique identity, rejecting comparisons to other top teams. The new coach will have to adapt to the different rhythm of international football, with less contact time, but said he will use technology to stay in touch with players.
Klopp’s reign begins with a baptism of fire in Amsterdam, though further details were not disclosed. He expressed hope that football can galvanise the entire country, drawing on his experience at Liverpool where the sport transformed the city. “Ideally, football can change a country,” he said.
