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Speaking in front of the media for the first time since officially being announced as Germany’s new head coach, Jürgen Klopp has set boundaries with the media and the DFB.
DFB President, Bernd Neuendorf, kicked off the press conference by stating what had occurred to get here and how pleased they are to have the former Mainz, Borussia Dortmund, and Liverpool man on board:
“We’ve had very intensive talks in recent weeks. He was our preferred solution from the beginning; we were all in agreement on that within the association. We made every effort to bring Jürgen Klopp on board. He is the best solution.”
Neuendorf also confirmed that Klopp’s staff will include Peter Krawietz, Pepijn Lijnders, and Sven Bender. Per Mertesacker will also replace the outgoing Andreas Rettig as DFB Managing Director at the end of 2026.
Before setting out his stall, Klopp firstly took time to reflect on the previous weeks and securing the role:
“It’s a huge honour to be sitting here today. What’s been happening to me these last few days is like a film playing in my head. I already had some idea of how big the job of national team coach is. But when you’re associated with it, you feel the magnitude and the responsibility even more. Knowing where I come from, it was unimaginable for me that it would ever come to this. It’s a very special day for me.”
Klopp then began to set up some boundaries in terms of media attention this will bring, not only to him, but also to his family. The Champions League winner also confirmed that should be be told to leave the role, he wouldn’t take any severance payments.
“The day you don’t want me anymore, I’m gone, without any severance pay. If you say tomorrow that he’s rubbish, I’m gone. Not just one person, it would have to be more than that. If the DFB says he’s rubbish, I’m gone. If you behave badly and don’t leave my family in peace, I’m gone. Criticise me if something doesn’t work. I’m happy to work on it. It’s all about the job. Jürgen Klopp doesn’t have a career after the national team. Ideally, this is the highlight of my career.”
It’s clear that Klopp understands the pressures that will be put on him and, as a result, his family, given some of the media’s treatment of previous managers in the past.
For the 59-year-old, the message can’t be clearer. The moment criticism gets personal, either from the DFB or the media, he will walk.
GGFN | Jamie Allen
