The German Football Association (DFB) will announce Jürgen Klopp as the new head coach of the national team on Friday at 11:00 CEST. The former Liverpool manager succeeds Julian Nagelsmann, who departed following Germany‘s early exit from the 2026 World Cup.
Klopp’s appointment marks his return to the dugout after a sabbatical from managerial duties. Since leaving Liverpool, where he secured both the Champions League and Premier League titles, the German has served as Head of Global Soccer for Red Bull GmbH since the start of 2025. He also worked as a television analyst for MagentaTV during the recent World Cup finals.
Charity donation seals release
The DFB secured Klopp’s release from his Red Bull contract through an unusual arrangement that benefits charitable causes rather than triggering a traditional compensation fee. The federation will donate €1 million to Wings for Life, a non-profit foundation owned by Red Bull that funds medical research into spinal cord injuries.
This arrangement allowed the DFB to bring Klopp into the international fold while the energy drinks company receives a substantial contribution toward its medical research arm.
Backroom team taking shape
Klopp is expected to bring several trusted lieutenants into the Germany setup. Pepijn Lijnders and Peter Krawietz, who worked alongside him at Liverpool and previously at Borussia Dortmund, are anticipated to join the coaching staff. Former Germany international Sven Bender and ex-Arsenal defender Pep Mertesacker are also expected to form part of the backroom team.
The composition suggests Klopp will implement his trademark high-intensity pressing style that brought success at Mainz, Dortmund and Liverpool.
What happens next
The announcement on Friday will formally end the DFB’s search for a successor to Nagelsmann, who left his post after Germany failed to progress beyond the group stage at the 2026 World Cup. Klopp’s first competitive matches in charge will likely come during the next international window as Germany begin preparations for forthcoming European Championship qualifiers.
The appointment represents a significant coup for the DFB, securing one of Europe’s most decorated managers to restore pride in the national team following their disappointing tournament showing.