Klopp moves to defuse row over comment on Germany coach

Jürgen Klopp has issued a public apology to Germany head coach Julian Nagelsmann after a controversial remark made during a live television broadcast sparked debate about the coach’s job security.

The incident occurred ahead of Germany’s opening match of the 2026 World Cup against Curacao, where Klopp was working as a pundit for MagentaTV. During a discussion about team selection alongside Thomas Muller, Klopp said, “Luckily, Julian Nagelsmann is still picking the team.” The use of the word “still” was widely interpreted by viewers and commentators as implying uncertainty surrounding Nagelsmann’s position, particularly given Klopp’s frequent links to the national team job.

The remark quickly drew attention and criticism, including from German football legend Lothar Matthaus. Klopp later acknowledged that the phrasing had unintended implications and said he immediately recognised the mistake after the broadcast.

Following Germany’s emphatic 7-1 victory over the Caribbean side, Klopp addressed the issue on air and spoke directly to Nagelsmann in an effort to clarify his comments. “I’ve already found the most hated word of the year: ‘Still’,” Klopp said during the post-match coverage. “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.”

Klopp, who is approaching his 59th birthday, attributed the controversy to a lapse in judgment and stressed that no disrespect had been intended toward Nagelsmann or the coaching staff. Despite Germany’s dominant performance, he was keen to ensure that his role as a pundit would not become a distraction for the team during the tournament.

During the live exchange with Nagelsmann, Klopp continued in a self-critical tone, emphasising his support for the team and its leadership. “There’s one more thing I have to say… we still need to make time for this. We’re also informally part of the team; we’re absolutely on your side. What I’ve realised is: I’ll be 59 the day after tomorrow, and I’m still an idiot. We are completely on your side, whatever you do. Nothing was intended to come of it to disrupt the process here.”

By Tamilla Hasanova