Jürgen Klopp 'ready' to become Germany head coach
Former Liverpool, Borussia Dortmund and Mainz head coach Jürgen Klopp says he is “ready” to succeed Julian Nagelsmann as Germany boss - although an agreement between the German Football Association and the 59-year-old has yet to be reached.
Klopp, Red Bull’s Head of Global Soccer, confirmed that discussions have already taken place with the DFB following the departure of Nagelsmann, who resigned on Friday following Germany’s round-of-32 exit at the FIFA World Cup 2026.
Klopp’s contract with Red Bull runs until 2029, but the Stuttgart native said he is “interested” in holding further talks, telling Magenta Sport he is “more recharged than ever” after two years away from the dugout.
“The timing isn’t perfect right now, but it’s better than it’s ever been,” he said.
“The fact is, I have an existing contract with Red Bull. I’ve said many times how much I enjoy this job. I’m the type of person who usually likes to honour contracts. But I’ve also made it clear I’m interested in talking [to the DFB].”
In a statement on Friday, the DFB said it is “seeking talks with Jürgen Klopp”, who had “already signalled his general willingness to take on the position”.
Klopp also said he would have to “talk to my boss, Oliver Mintzlaff”, before any agreement can be reached.
Germany made the perfect start to their World Cup 2026 campaign under Nagelsmann, cruising to a 7-1 win over minnows Curaçao before a come-from-behind victory over Côte d’Ivoire confirmed their place in the knockout stages as Group E winners.
However, after losing 2-1 to Ecuador in their final group match, Nagelsmann’s charges were beaten on penalties by Paraguay in the round of 32 - their first shoot-out defeat at a World Cup finals.
Klopp, who won two Bundesliga titles with Dortmund before guiding Liverpool to Premier League and UEFA Champions League glory during his time in England, feels Germany’s underwhelming showing was not only down to Nagelsmann, but admits the German national team is currently “at a crossroads”.
“We need to make fundamental changes,” said the former Mainz player, who also guided Die Nullfünfer into the Bundesliga for the first time in the club’s history in 2004.
“Whether that ends up being me or whoever else it may be, it doesn’t change the fact that these changes are necessary.”
