Jurgen Klopp Identified as Leading Candidate to Take Over from Nagelsmann as New Developments Arise
Jurgen Klopp, the charismatic former Liverpool manager, has emerged as Germany’s prime candidate to replace Julian Nagelsmann should the ex-Bayern Munich coach step down after the 2026 World Cup. Following an illustrious nine-year tenure at Anfield, which saw Klopp guide Liverpool to their first Premier League title in three decades, alongside an FA Cup, Carabao Cup, and the coveted Champions League trophy, he has taken a step back from the managerial limelight.
With Arne Slot now steering Liverpool into a new chapter, Klopp finds himself contemplating his future. Despite previously hinting at a possible retirement from management, citing a need for a break, the allure of returning to the touchline is undeniable. This summer, he was linked to the England managerial position following Gareth Southgate’s departure, but it appears that his homeland is now calling.
Rudi Voller, Germany’s sporting director and a legendary striker, acknowledged Klopp’s potential candidacy in a recent interview. “If Julian Nagelsmann were to decide at some point that he would rather coach a top club again, then of course there is no way around Jurgen Klopp. If he wants to,” Voller stated, as reported by the Mirror. His comments suggest that Klopp is not only respected but desired, should Nagelsmann vacate his position.
Klopp himself has enjoyed some well-deserved downtime since departing Liverpool. Recently, he took charge of a Dortmund legends squad for testimonials honoring Lukasz Piszczek and Jakub Blaszczykowski. Reflecting on this experience, Klopp described it as a “lifelong dream,” demonstrating his deep affection for all his former clubs, including Mainz.
Yet, the question of Klopp’s immediate future remains unresolved. He had previously asserted his intention not to take on another managerial role for “at least one more year.” “If you ask me, ‘Will you ever work as a manager again?’ I would say now no. But I don’t know obviously how that will feel because I never had the situation,” he confessed.
While Klopp acknowledges that he may not manage a club or country for some time, his competitive spirit is ever-present. “But all the rest, will I ever work again? Of course, I know myself, I cannot just sit around. I will find something else maybe to do,” he added, leaving the door slightly ajar for potential opportunities down the line.
As the football world speculates on his next move, one thing is clear: Klopp remains a managerial titan, and should the German national team seek a new leader, the prospect of his return will undoubtedly send waves through the footballing community.
Jurgen Klopp Identified as Leading Candidate to Take Over from Nagelsmann as New Developments Arise