Jurgen Klopp has vowed to bring a “new approach” to the German national team as he begins his tenure as head coach, aiming to revive the fortunes of the four-time world champions and chase a first-ever Nations League title.
In a video message ahead of Germany’s opening match against the Netherlands in Amsterdam, Klopp introduced himself as “the new one”—a nod to his famous “normal one” introduction at Liverpool—and thanked fans for their global support. “We will try everything to make our new approach visible. I expect more immediately. It might get a bit wild, but I’ll take that; it just has to be lively,” Klopp said.
Back on the sidelines for the first time since leaving Liverpool in 2024, Klopp has already shown his intent to shake up the status quo. His first squad selection included 44 players, with 16 uncapped, split into two matchday groups, and left out some fan favourites. The move signals Klopp’s willingness to experiment and rebuild from the ground up.
Players have responded to Klopp’s energy and leadership. Freiburg right-back Philipp Treu said, “You feel like you’d walk through fire for him,” while new call-up Younes Ebnoutalib explained his decision to choose Germany over Morocco: “When Klopp calls, you have to go. He brings a really positive energy.”
Germany, who have struggled to progress in major tournaments since 2016, are looking to Klopp’s track record of transforming clubs in crisis. At Dortmund, he led the club from near-bankruptcy to Bundesliga glory; at Liverpool, he ended a decades-long league title drought and brought Champions League success.
Klopp’s unifying message is already resonating. He’s reached out to DFB All-Stars and launched the “one of 83 million” campaign to rally the country behind the national team. Legendary former captain Lothar Matthaeus summed up the mood: “Everything will be better with Klopp in the main job. Trust is important.”
As Germany kicks off their campaign under Klopp, fans and pundits alike are hopeful that “the new one” can restore the team to its former heights.
