Jurgen Klopp is making a sensational comeback to football management, officially accepting the role of head coach for the Germany national team. The former Liverpool manager steps in to replace Julian Nagelsmann, who departed after Germany’s disappointing 2026 World Cup campaign ended in heartbreak for Die Mannschaft.
After two years away from the touchline, Klopp has decided to return, concluding his stint as the head of global football for the Red Bull Group. His exit from Anfield in 2024 marked the end of an era, but the lure of managing his homeland has proved irresistible. Reports indicate that the offer from the German Football Association (DFB) was too compelling to decline.
According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, the agreement is virtually complete. In his signature announcement style, Romano confirmed, “Jurgen Klopp as new Germany head coach, here we go!” He added that while the remaining administrative details—such as Klopp’s release from Red Bull—are being finalised, the decision has been made and Klopp will take charge of the national side.
Nagelsmann’s resignation paved the way for Klopp’s appointment. The former Bayern Munich coach stepped down under mounting scrutiny from the DFB hierarchy after Germany’s shocking elimination from the 2026 World Cup by Paraguay in the round of 32. The defeat, which came via a penalty shootout—the first in the nation’s World Cup history—proved to be the final blow to Nagelsmann’s tenure.
While working as a pundit during the tournament, Klopp himself confirmed the discussions during a broadcast on Magenta TV. He revealed, “Yes, I can confirm the talks. Things have progressed quite quickly. Julian [Nagelsmann] has resigned, and the DFB is planning for a successor. During this process, they reached out to me.” The DFB has long regarded Klopp as their ideal candidate, and Nagelsmann’s exit created the ideal opening for his appointment.
Klopp will reportedly be given extensive authority to reshape the national setup. His role will not be limited to the senior team; he will oversee a complete revamp of the youth system and introduce a new tactical identity based on his trademark high-intensity style. As part of this restructuring, he is expected to reunite with his former Liverpool assistant Pep Lijnders, who is currently available after leaving Manchester City.
Addressing his current situation, Klopp was transparent about his discussions with Red Bull. “I still have a contract with Red Bull and have often said how much I enjoy the job. I usually honour my contracts, but I’ve also expressed my interest in speaking with the DFB. I need to discuss this with Oliver Mintzlaff, my employer. We’ve already spoken, and I believe he won’t stand in my way. I’ve been here for 19 months—it’s been an intense period. Ideally, this move should work out well for everyone. Red Bull deserves a clean transition,” Klopp stated.
Klopp’s appointment has already sparked excitement across Germany, particularly regarding the opportunity for him to mentor some of the nation’s brightest talents. One of the most intriguing subplots is his potential collaboration with Liverpool’s Florian Wirtz, who could play a key role in reigniting Germany’s attacking creativity after several lacklustre tournaments.
As Klopp prepares to sign a long-term deal, Red Bull has commenced its search for a new head of global football. While Oliver Glasner was initially considered for the position, the former Crystal Palace manager is reportedly in talks to join Nottingham Forest instead.