Klopp wants to 'reclaim' flag amid German elections
New Germany coach Jurgen Klopp says his team can help ensure "national pride is not entrusted to the wrong people" after a recent far-right election victory.
Jurgen Klopp, the new coach of Germany's national football team, has expressed his desire to reclaim the national flag in the wake of a recent far-right election victory in Saxony-Anhalt. The Alternative for Germany (AfD) party secured 43.8% of the vote in the eastern state, though short of an absolute majority. Klopp, speaking at a news conference, emphasized his lack of political expertise but desired to ensure the national flag is not entrusted to the wrong individuals.
He advocated for a form of "positive patriotism" rather than national pride, which he feared could be misunderstood. Klopp highlighted the importance of national pride not merely being a matter of being proud to be German, but also being open-minded, diverse, kind and friendly. He also noted that while football can foster a sense of community, healthcare professionals are crucial for the country's wellbeing.
Klopp named 16 uncapped players in his 44-man squad for upcoming matches against the Netherlands, Greece, Serbia and Germany.
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