Germany's saviour? How Klopp turns fortunes
Jurgen Klopp takes charge of Germany on a £6m annual salary, selecting 57 players and splitting squads for upcoming matches.
Stock photo for illustration only, not from the actual event
- Jurgen Klopp takes over as Germany head coach on a £6m yearly salary.
- He evaluated 57 potential players and split squads into two distinct groups for four fixtures.
- The managerial approach emphasizes youth, energy, and giving lower-tier talents a chance.
- Klopp aims to foster unity and positive patriotism amid the country's political backdrop.
Ever since Jurgen Klopp was announced as Germany's head coach in July, his tenure has generated significant attention. During his very first news conference, he cautioned the media to treat him fairly and protect his family from attacks.
Last Thursday, in another media session amid ongoing political shifts, Klopp called for positive patriotism and expressed his desire to reclaim the national flag for everyone. This followed notable political gains by the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party in Saxony-Anhalt and Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania.
Klopp's vocal stance off the pitch illustrates how high-profile managers in modern football occasionally step beyond purely athletic duties to address broader societal sentiments, seeking to unify a nation experiencing political polarization.
Stock photo for illustration only, not from the actual event
Nevertheless, the German Football Association (DFB) did not hire the former Liverpool manager on a £6m annual salary to act merely as a political commentator, but rather to revitalize an underperforming national team through diligent observation and frequent club visits.
Approaching the role with an open mindset, the 59-year-old manager initially compiled a list of 57 players. Eschewing a conventional single lineup, he and his staff opted to assemble two nearly entirely separate squads for the upcoming international break.
The first squad features established stars such as Joshua Kimmich, Kai Havertz, and Jamal Musiala, set to face rivals the Netherlands at Johan Cruyff Arena and host Greece. Meanwhile, the second group includes Florian Wirtz and Aleksandar Pavlovic, with backup goalkeeper Finn Dahmen serving as the sole player selected for both rosters.
"I have the desire to work with guys who cannot wait to wear this jersey."
Jurgen Klopp
This experimental approach means fans will not see Germany's ultimate starting XI immediately. Instead, players from lower tiers, such as 23-year-old SV Elversberg utility player Felix Keidel alongside Mika Baur, Bambase Conte, Max Rosenfelder, Philipp Treu, and Vitaly Janelt, receive an opportunity to shine.
Klopp has historically excelled at elevating underrated talents, reminiscent of how he transformed players like Lukasz Piszczek and Andy Robertson during his club career. By prioritizing fitness, mental readiness, and an aggressive pressing style tailored to exploit wide areas, he aims to reshape Germany's tactical identity.
Source: BBC Sport
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