Klopp says Germany must reclaim national pride from ‘wrong people’
Juergen Klopp wants Germans to express national pride without being linked to extremism in remarks seen as a rebuke to the far-right AfD party.
Germany's national football coach, Juergen Klopp, emphasized on Thursday the need to take back expressions of national pride from the wrong people, particularly in light of the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party's electoral victory in Saxony-Anhalt. Speaking at a press conference to present a 44-man split squad for upcoming Nations League matches, Klopp urged Germans to feel proud of their country without being affiliated with extremism.
He stated that he does not wish to entrust national pride to the wrong entities and that he desires to reclaim the flag, ensuring that those who wave it feel content and grateful for living in such a remarkable nation.
In the recent elections, the AfD outperformed mainstream parties in the eastern state of Saxony-Anhalt, potentially forming the first far-right government at the state level since World War II. Additionally, the party might emerge as the top contender in an upcoming state election this weekend. Klopp also recounted the recent surge of events, including the election, which left many people perplexed and questioning the state of affairs.
An AfD spokesperson promised to release a statement later that same day, while German Finance Minister and Vice Chancellor, Lars Klingbeil, echoed Klopp's sentiments, affirming that the national flag represents inclusivity and unity. Klingbeil argued that individuals can take pride in Germany, regardless of their birthplace, immigration status, or ancestral roots.
Klopp adopted the term 'positive patriotism' to express his stance on national pride, as he feared that the term 'national pride' could be misconstrued and associated with extremism. The former Liverpool manager believes that being proud of being German and being open, diverse, and compassionate can coexist harmoniously.
The Christian Democratic secretary general, Franziska Hoppermann, supported Klopp's call to not cede Germany's symbols to extremists, stating that everyone has the right to wear their national colors with pride and confidence as a symbol of freedom.
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