Klopp starts Germany reign by threatening to quit over media intrusion

Jürgen Klopp began his reign as Germany head coach with a blunt warning to the media: invade his family’s privacy, and he will quit. The former Liverpool manager, confirmed on a four-year deal on Friday, replaces Julian Nagelsmann, who resigned this month after Germany’s shock World Cup last-32 defeat by Paraguay.

Klopp lays down the law at his first press conference

The 59-year-old did not hold back in front of journalists gathered for his official unveiling as Germany’s new head coach. “If you behave badly and don’t leave my family in peace then I’ll be gone, I’ll just turn away,” Klopp said, setting the tone for his relationship with the German press from day one.

The warning fits a pattern for Klopp, who consistently guarded his family’s privacy throughout his time at Liverpool and Borussia Dortmund without it denting his popularity with supporters or the media.

Why Germany turned to Klopp after their World Cup exit

Julian Nagelsmann resigned this month following Germany’s shock last-32 exit to Paraguay at the World Cup, a result that plunged German football into crisis.

The German federation moved quickly to install Klopp, banking on his track record and forceful personality to rebuild a squad short on confidence. His first game in charge comes on 24 September against the Netherlands.

FAQ