Germany's saviour? How Klopp is looking to turn fortunes around

Since Jurgen Klopp was appointed as Germany's head coach in July, the nation has experienced a rollercoaster of emotions. During his first press conference, Klopp admonished the media to treat him fairly and refrain from targeting his family. In a subsequent press conference, Klopp called for "positive patriotism" amidst political turmoil in Germany.

When asked if he considers himself an ambassador for Germany, Klopp replied seriously: "From my perspective as a sportsman, I would very much like to reclaim the flag for myself, for all of us."

Klopp's positive outlook was demonstrated when he expressed his desire for Germany to be seen as a happy and lucky country, with people understanding that they are fortunate to be born, grow up, or move to such a wonderful nation. This sentiment was widely discussed in the media, highlighting how football can foster a sense of community. Klopp's appointment by the German Football Association (DFB) was not solely to become a commentator on the state of Germany but to transform a struggling national team.

With this in mind, Klopp approached his role with a clear plan. Initially, he drew up a list of 57 players who could potentially be selected for the team's first international break. However, he chose to select two different squads, giving lesser-known players the opportunity to showcase their skills. Players like Felix Keidel, who had previously been in Germany's second tier, were given a chance to prove themselves alongside more established players like Joshua Kimmich and Kai Havertz.

Klopp's approach is centered on youth and energy, with an average age of 24 to 25 in both squads. By focusing on younger players, Klopp aims to instill a sense of vitality and passion within the team. He believes that these players are eager to wear the national team jersey and perform at their best when representing their country. As a result, Germany can expect a more simplified approach to ball possession, with an emphasis on attacking the opposing team's wings.