Jurgen Klopp warns media over family privacy after taking Germany coaching role
Klopp’s new role and warning to media
Jurgen Klopp has been appointed as the new head coach of Germany, signing an initial four-year contract that runs through to 2030. The German Football Association (DFB) confirmed the appointment after Julian Nagelsmann’s resignation. Klopp’s tenure officially began on August 15, 2026, following Germany’s exit from the FIFA World Cup 2026 in the round of 32.
During his first news conference as Germany’s head coach, the 59-year-old issued a clear warning to the media regarding his family’s privacy. Klopp stated that he would quit his new role if the media did not leave his family in peace. He emphasised his readiness to call it quits if necessary, referencing the treatment of his predecessor Julian Nagelsmann and England boss Thomas Tuchel by the media.
Klopp noted that he is taking on the job for the country, not for himself, and acknowledged that national team coaches in other countries sometimes face worse treatment. He expressed that while he loves the job, he is prepared to step down if media behaviour becomes unacceptable. He also made it clear that he would depart without severance pay if the DFB decided they no longer wanted him.
A career pinnacle and return to coaching
Klopp described the Germany head coach position as the “pinnacle” and the “absolutely high point” of his football coaching career, stating he would give everything he has. He also confirmed that he does not anticipate having another coaching career after this role. This marks Klopp’s first coaching job since he ended his nine-year tenure at Liverpool in the summer of 2024, citing a need for energy recuperation.
He expressed that the timing feels right for his return to coaching and his first role in international football. Klopp admitted that for many years, taking on this position was unimaginable, but as time passed, it became increasingly evident that he would eventually be asked to do so. He highlighted that the magnitude of being the national team head coach is now truly dawning on him.
Before joining the DFB, Klopp had taken a break from management after leaving Liverpool. He then became the Head of Global Soccer for Red Bull GmbH on January 1, 2025, overseeing their international network of clubs, including Bundesliga side RB Leipzig. He has since ended his contract with Red Bull to take on the Germany national team role.
Expectations and first match
DFB president Bernd Neuendorf stated that Klopp embodies passion, credibility, and the ability to inspire people, making him their first choice for the role. DFB sporting director Rudi Völler added that Klopp has proven his ability to develop young players and motivate his teams under pressure, and that he will inspire fans and German football.
Klopp’s appointment comes as Germany seeks its first major trophy since winning the 2014 World Cup, having experienced early exits in the 2018, 2022, and 2026 tournaments. He aims to develop a team that fights for each other, enjoys playing football, and that the German public can fully support.
His first match in charge of the national team will be against the Netherlands in a Nations League group-stage match on September 24.
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Source: bbc.com
