Jurgen Klopp has confirmed he is in discussions about taking over as the head coach of the German national football team, following Julian Nagelsmann's departure after a disappointing World Cup performance. Nagelsmann exited his role after Germany's elimination in the round of 32 by Paraguay, and is set to receive a £6 million severance package.
Klopp, who has been working as a pundit for German television during the tournament, has emerged as the German Football Association's (DFB) top target. He confirmed his interest in the position, though he cautioned that the process would be complex.
"Yes, I can confirm the talks," Klopp stated on Magenta TV. "Things moved pretty quickly. Julian stepped down. The DFB are looking for a successor. And they're talking to me."
Klopp has been serving as Red Bull's 'Head of Global Soccer' since leaving Liverpool in 2024, where he achieved legendary status by ending the club's long wait for a Premier League title. He acknowledged that his current contract with Red Bull could present complications.
"Time. I'm under contract with Red Bull. I've said I'm interested in the talks," Klopp said when asked about potential hurdles. "They will be intensive because this isn't only about Julian Nagelsmann. 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."
Despite the potential complications, Klopp expressed readiness for the challenge. "I'm ready. Once the talks begin, your mind starts racing. We have to change things fundamentally."
Germany's failure in the World Cup marks their third consecutive early exit since winning the tournament in 2014. Nagelsmann also led Germany to a quarter-final exit at Euro 2024. Nagelsmann expressed his regret following his dismissal: "The decision was anything but easy for me. My top priority has always been the success of the team. After such a bitter disappointment, it deserves the chance of a new beginning. I am sorry and hurt from the bottom of my heart that we disappointed you and couldn’t give you any more football nights at this World Cup."
Klopp, however, expressed confidence in Nagelsmann's future coaching career, stating, "Julian is an exceptional coach, and he will be able to prove that time and again throughout his coaching career." He also emphasized that the team's current struggles cannot be solely attributed to Nagelsmann.