Jurgen Klopp began his tenure as Germany’s head coach with a firm warning: he will step down if the media encroaches on his family’s privacy.
The 59-year-old former Liverpool boss signed a four-year contract on Friday, replacing Julian Nagelsmann, who resigned earlier this month after Germany’s shock World Cup last-32 exit to Paraguay.
In his first press conference, Klopp cautioned journalists that he would not accept intrusion into his private life. He said he knows national coaches can be treated even more harshly elsewhere and that he took the role despite seeing how Julian Nagelsmann and Thomas Tuchel were covered. He stressed he’s doing the job for the country and would walk away if lines are crossed.
Both Nagelsmann and England manager Tuchel faced intense scrutiny after their World Cup departures; Tuchel, in particular, was criticised for defensive tactics and substitutions as England let a 1-0 lead slip in a semi-final loss to Argentina.
Klopp’s appointment had been expected for weeks, and his deal runs through the 2030 World Cup, co-hosted by Spain, Portugal and Morocco. He said he does not plan a “career” after leading the national team, calling the role the pinnacle of his coaching life and pledging to give it everything.