Jurgen Klopp emerges as ‘number one target’ for first job after Liverpool departure

Former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has emerged as Germany’s top candidate to replace Julian Nagelsmann if the current national team coach steps down after the 2026 World Cup.

Klopp, who left Liverpool this summer after a transformative nine-year spell, is being considered by the German Football Association (DFB) to lead the national team into a new era.

During his time at Anfield, Klopp secured Liverpool’s first Premier League title in 30 years.

He also won the FA Cup, Carabao Cup, and Champions League, cementing his legacy as one of the club’s greatest-ever managers.

With Arne Slot now ushering in a new chapter at Liverpool, Klopp is contemplating his next steps.

Although he has previously hinted at the possibility of retiring from management, citing a need for rest, an opportunity to manage his homeland’s national team could prove too enticing to pass up.

Klopp was also linked with the England job earlier this summer after Gareth Southgate’s departure, but the 57-year-old now seems to be a prime candidate for Germany.

According to The Mirror, Klopp is the DFB’s “number one target” if Nagelsmann departs following the World Cup.

Sporting director and German football icon Rudi Völler emphasized Klopp’s credentials, suggesting there would be “no way” they could overlook him if the position became available.

Völler added that Klopp would be the standout candidate should he express interest in leading the national team, though Klopp’s long-term plans remain uncertain.

“I don’t even know what Jurgen would like to do again,” he said, speaking to Aktuelle Sportstudio.

“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.”

Jurgen Klopp has been enjoying some well-earned downtime since his departure from Liverpool.

Recently, he returned to the dugout to manage a Borussia Dortmund legends team for the testimonial matches of Lukasz Piszczek and Jakub Blaszczykowski.

Reflecting on the experience, Klopp described managing Dortmund once again as fulfilling a “lifelong dream,” while also expressing his deep affection for all three of his former clubs, including Mainz.

Despite this nostalgic moment, it remains unclear whether Klopp will return to full-time management.

He previously sparked speculation about retirement after announcing his surprising decision to leave Liverpool earlier this year.

For now, Klopp has stated that he does not plan to take on another managerial role “for at least one more year,” leaving fans to wonder about his next move.

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