Jurgen Klopp has confirmed that he is in talks to become Germany’s next manager following Julian Nagelsmann’s resignation following the World Cup last-32 exit to Paraguay, and said he hopes Red Bull will support the appointment.
(Image: Richard Sellers/All Star, Getty Images)
Jurgen Klopp has vowed that he does not expect Red Bull to stand in his way as the next Germany national team manager, after confirming that talks are underway to replace Julian Nagelsmann.
Nagelsmann’s Germany were expelled from the World Cup on penalties by Paraguay in the last-32 stage on Monday night.
Nagelsmann, who was appointed to replace Hansi Flick in September 2023, resigned immediately, sparking speculation that former Liverpool manager Klopp was the frontrunner to succeed him.
The iconic former Reds manager is currently Red Bull’s global head of football, overseeing its network of clubs around the world, and is attending the World Cup as an analyst for German broadcaster Magenta. On Friday night’s show, he revealed that he does not expect his current employer to interfere with the national team’s efforts.
“Yes, I can confirm the negotiations,” Klopp told Magenta. “Things moved very quickly. Julian resigned. The DFB (German Football Association) is looking for a replacement and they are talking to me.”
“What needs to happen now? It’s time. I have a contract with Red Bull. I have said that I am interested in negotiations. This is not just a Julian Nagelsmann issue, so the negotiations will be intensive.”
“I have an existing contract with Red Bull. I have said many times how much I enjoy this job. As an individual, I usually respect the contract. But I have also made it clear that I am interested in negotiating with the DFB.”
“I also have to talk to[Red Bull CEO]Oliver Mintzlaff. He’s my employer. I’ve already touched on some things. I don’t think he’ll get in the way. I was there for 19 months. It was an intense time.”
“We are ready. Once the negotiations start, we will be quick-witted. We have to fundamentally change things. Of course, we cannot impose the problems we currently have only on Julian Nagelsmann, so we will need intensive discussions.”
Germany wants to appoint Jurgen Klopp to replace Julian Nagelsmann (Image: Alexander Hassenstein, Getty Images)
“Julian is an exceptional coach and will prove that time and time again throughout his coaching career.”
Following Die Mannschaft’s early withdrawal from the World Cup, manager Nagelsmann issued a statement admitting it was a “bitter disappointment” to be eliminated so early in the expansion tournament, which will be held in Canada, the United States and Mexico.
“This decision was never easy for me,” said Nagelsmann. “My first priority is always the success of the team.
“After such a terrible disappointment, you deserve a chance for a fresh start. We are deeply sorry and hurt that we let you all down and were unable to provide you with more nights of football at the World Cup.”
Klopp’s move will mark his first return to coaching since leaving Liverpool in May 2024 after nine years in charge.
During his time on Merseyside, the legendary German won the Champions League, Premier League, FA Cup, two League Cups and won his first Club World Cup in 2019.
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