Jürgen Klopp has outlined his immediate priorities after being appointed head coach of the German national team, with the former Liverpool manager confirming he will search for a new right-back rather than deploy Joshua Kimmich in the position.
Klopp, who took charge of Die Mannschaft following his appointment, does not view the Bayern Munich midfielder as a solution at full-back. Instead, the 57-year-old is already monitoring Germany’s youth national teams to identify a long-term candidate for the role.
The appointment marks Klopp’s return to management following his departure from Liverpool at the end of last season. During his nine-year spell at Anfield, he transformed Trent Alexander-Arnold from an academy prospect into one of the world’s most creative full-backs, demonstrating the importance he places on the position.
Selection criteria
Speaking about his squad plans, Klopp emphasised that performance and mentality would determine selection rather than reputation. “I have ideas, but I haven’t spoken to anyone yet,” he said. “I’m not going to assign any positions here. Whoever is very good, really keen, and whoever gets even better the moment they put on the national team jersey, will play.”
Kimmich has operated in various roles for both club and country, frequently deputising at right-back when required. However, Klopp’s decision to look elsewhere suggests a significant tactical shift for the national side. The German Football Federation (DFB) will hope Klopp’s renowned ability to develop young talent—exemplified by Alexander-Arnold’s progression—can unearth a domestic solution in the youth ranks.
The new head coach’s focus on full-backs reflects his established tactical philosophy, where wide defenders often serve as auxiliary playmakers. Having prioritised the position during his Liverpool tenure, Klopp appears set to implement similar creative demands on his Germany defenders.
The move to exclude Kimmich from right-back contention represents a clear statement of intent from Klopp, who inherits a squad seeking to rebuild following recent tournament disappointments. While Kimmich remains a fixture in midfield, the search for a specialist full-back indicates Klopp’s determination to install his preferred tactical framework from the outset.