'Have fun under pressure': Klopp picks 44 players for first games
Jürgen Klopp has nominated 44 players in two squads for his first four matches as German national team coach where established players and newcomers are to "have fun under pressure" in his rebuilding mission. Led by captain Joshua Kimmich, the large squad announced by Klopp on Thursday includes 16 players from the last World Cup group and another 16 uncapped players.
Jurgen Klopp, the newly appointed Germany national team coach, has unveiled two squads of 44 players each for his inaugural matches in the UEFA Nations League. The first squad, consisting of 24 players, will compete against the Netherlands on September 24 and host Greece three days later. The second squad, comprising 20 players, will face Serbia at home on October 1 and travel to Greece on October 4.
Klopp, who succeeded Julian Nagelsmann following Germany's early exit in the World Cup, aims to rebuild the team and identify potential pillars of support for the next major tournament, Euro 2028. The squads feature a mix of established players and talented newcomers, including surprises like Celtic's Mike Baur, Hoffenheim's Bambasé Conté, and Augsburg's Hennes Behrens. Returning players such as Marc-André ter Stegen, Serge Gnabry, and Karim Adeyemi also make their comeback appearances.
Klopp emphasized that the selection process was liberating, allowing him to observe a wealth of potential in the players. He urged his squad to "have fun under pressure," urging them to embrace the challenge as they embark on their rebuilding journey.
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