Former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has confirmed that he has entered into negotiations to become Germany national team manager. Germany is looking for a new coach after coach Julian Nagelsmann decided to step down after being eliminated from the World Cup.
Nagelsmann led Germany to the last 32 of the World Cup, but they lost to Paraguay on penalties and missed out on a potential last-16 encounter with France.
Klopp has been linked with a return to the dugout since leaving Liverpool in 2024, during which time he became head of global football at Red Bull.
The 59-year-old revealed that the German Football Association (DFB) had already approached him about filling the vacancy, but explained that he wanted to leave Red Bull on the best possible terms.
“Yes, I can confirm the meeting,” Klopp told Magenta TV, where he is currently a commentator for the 2026 World Cup.
“Things moved very quickly. Julian (Nagelsmann) resigned and the DFB is looking for a replacement. And in the course of these considerations they approached me.”
Klopp added: “I have an existing contract with Red Bull. I have said many times how much I enjoy this job. As a person, I usually respect contracts. But I have also made it clear that I am interested in negotiating with the DFB.”
“I have to talk to Oliver Mintzlaff. He is my employer. We have already discussed things. I don’t think he will get in my way. I was there for 19 months. It was an intense time. Ideally, in the end everyone wins. Red Bull needs to get out of this situation.”
Klopp also said he was “ready” to return to football management after two years away from the touchline.
Klopp said: “Right now we are more than ready. We are ready.”
The DFB announced earlier this week that it was interested in appointing Klopp as Germany’s new manager.
“The DFB leadership will seek consultation with Jurgen Klopp regarding the appointment of a new manager,” reads part of the statement, which also confirms Nagelsmann’s resignation. “He (Klopp) has already shown a general desire to take up the position.”
