Jurgen Klopp has issued an apology to Germany’s head coach Julian Nagelsmann over a controversial comment he made ahead of the country’s FIFA World Cup campaign.
The former Liverpool manager’s use of “still” in reference to Nagelsmann’s role as Germany’s head coach had suggested uncertainty over the latter’s future. Klopp, alongside former Germany international Thomas Muller, were on FIFA World Cup punditry duty for Magenta TV when the ex-Liverpool manager said about Germany’s team selection (via Mirror):
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“Luckily, Julian Nagelsmann is still picking the team.”
However, Klopp has now apologised to his countryman following their 7-1 drubbing of World Cup debutants Curacao on Sunday, June 14. He said:
“I’ve already found the most hated word of the year: ‘Still’. I could have punched myself in the face for that, but it was already too late and I was on TV. It just slipped out so casually, and has absolutely no relevance.
“What I’ve realised is, I’ll be 59 on Tuesday and I’m still an idiot, he added.”
The 58-year-old then affirmed his full support for Nagglesman, saying:
“We are completely on your side, whatever you do with this. Nothing will come of it that is intended to disrupt the process here.”
Klopp has been out of football management since stepping down as Liverpool’s boss in 2024. The German tactician took up the role of Head of Global Football at Red Bull, but has been tipped as Nagelsmann’s successor.
Germany sets new FIFA World Cup record after victory over Curacao
Germany have become the nation with the most goals at the FIFA World Cup following their emphatic 7-1 win over Curacao. Julian Nagelsmann’s team produced a dominant performance over their southern Caribbean counterpart, with seven different goalscorers to kickstart their World Cup campaign.
The four-time world champions have now scored a total of 239 World Cup goals, surpassing previous record holders Brazil (238). Germany have featured in all but one World Cup edition, missing only the tournament in 1950.
Notably, they also hold the record for the player with the most goals scored at the World Cup, with Miroslav Klose topping the chart with 16 goals across four editions.
Die Mannschaft will next face Ivory Coast on Saturday, June 20, before wrapping up the group stage with a clash against Ecuador on June 25.
Edited by Okenna Okere