Jürgen Klopp has confirmed he is in talks to become Germany’s next head coach after the German Football Federation (DFB) approached him following Julian Nagelsmann’s resignation.
Speaking while working as a television pundit during the 2026 FIFA World Cup in New York, the former Liverpool manager acknowledged that discussions are underway but stressed that no agreement has yet been reached.
Nagelsmann stepped down after Germany’s disappointing World Cup campaign ended with a last-32 penalty defeat to Paraguay, prompting the DFB to begin its search for a successor. Klopp has now emerged as the federation’s preferred candidate to lead the four-time world champions into a new era.
Addressing the speculation publicly for the first time, Klopp confirmed the federation had already made contact.
“Julian has stepped down and the [federation] is working on the succession and has approached me in the course of those considerations.”
The 59-year-old has not managed a club since leaving Liverpool in 2024 after ending a trophy-laden spell at Anfield. At the time, Klopp cited a lack of energy as the main reason for stepping away from management.
Two years on, however, he insists he is ready to return to the dugout.
“About two years ago I stopped at Liverpool and said that I lacked the energy for another job or for another year with Liverpool. Since then I’m more than recharged, I’m ready.”
Klopp also believes Germany’s recent struggles cannot be solved simply by appointing a new coach.
The former Borussia Dortmund and Liverpool boss argued that German football requires significant structural reform after another disappointing major tournament, with Germany having now endured a series of underwhelming World Cup campaigns.
“German football is obviously at a turning point now. Now we need to change things fundamentally. Whether that’s me in the end or whoever it may be, that doesn’t change the fact that changes are necessary.”
Any appointment is expected to depend on negotiations involving Klopp’s current role as Red Bull’s Head of Global Soccer.
The German coach confirmed further discussions will be required with his employer before any agreement can be finalised, although reports suggest Red Bull are open to those conversations.
The DFB has already identified Klopp as its leading choice following Nagelsmann’s departure, and the former Liverpool boss has signalled a willingness to take on one of the biggest jobs in international football.
Should negotiations prove successful, Klopp would inherit a Germany side eager to rebuild after another early World Cup exit and restore its standing among football’s elite.
For now, discussions continue, but Klopp has made one thing clear: after two years away from management, he believes he is ready for the challenge.
