During his official presentation as the new head coach of the German national team, Jürgen Klopp immediately offered some initial insights into his athletic vision. One statement in particular caught everyone’s attention: Joshua Kimmich apparently isn’t expected to be a permanent fixture at right back. Instead, the 59-year-old announced a major shake-up in the roster and a more daring approach to squad selection.
With Klopp taking office, a new era is beginning at the German Football Association. Following the disappointing World Cup exit against Paraguay, the former coach of Borussia Dortmund and Liverpool FC is tasked with leading the national team back to the top of international soccer.
It was already clear at his first press conference that Klopp brings his own ideas for shaping the DFB squad.
Klopp avoids committing to Kimmich
Sky recently reported that the search for a new right back is a top priority for Klopp and that Joshua Kimmich could return to playing permanently in central midfield in the future.
When asked about the Bayern captain’s role, however, Klopp did not want to make a final decision just yet. “I have some ideas, but I haven’t spoken to anyone yet. I’m not going to hand out positions here. The ones who play will be the ones who are very good, who are really eager, and who get even a little better the moment they put on the jersey,” explained the new national team coach.
With a wink, however, Klopp added: “We’ll definitely play with a right back.”
This statement can likely be taken as a clear indication that Kimmich could once again see more playing time in his preferred position in midfield in the future. Under Julian Nagelsmann, the Bayern star had once again filled in at right back during the World Cup due to a lack of alternatives.
Klopp Announces a Bold New Beginning
In addition to the Kimmich situation, Klopp made it clear that he wants to bring a breath of fresh air to the national team. The 59-year-old announced his intention to give young and previously overlooked players a real chance.
“Players who aren’t even expecting it will get opportunities. Because I want to be bold. I’ve always been that way, and I’ll stay that way,” Klopp explained.
His goal, he said, is to build a team that plays attractive and bold soccer: “I’m eager to work with guys who play a style of soccer that everyone enjoys. It doesn’t always lead to immediate success, but I want people to go home after the game and say, ‘Wow!’”
For the Bayern pros, the coaching change at the DFB is likely to have significant consequences. While Joshua Kimmich can hope for a return to central midfield, new faces from the youth ranks or the Bundesliga could also get their chance. In any case, Klopp’s initial comments make it clear that the German national team will undergo changes in both personnel and playing style.