Duitse coach Klopp warns: Als media misbehave, I’ll quit in first press conference

Jürgen Klopp began his tenure as the German (Duitse) national team coach with a stark warning to the press, stating, "Als you misbehave or do not leave my family alone, I will be gone." The remark came during his inaugural press conference, where he was introduced to the media.

He turned directly to the journalists, adding, "De day you no longer want me, you will say it. And then I am gone," underscoring his low tolerance for criticism. Klopp emphasized that his departure would occur without any severance payment.

Klopp also warned, "If you call me worthless, I will leave. Not one person, it must be more. If the federation says I am worthless, I will leave," reinforcing the collective responsibility he expects from both media and the association.

Highlighting his community‑building experience, he recalled three instances where football transformed a city, referring to his spells at Mainz, Dortmund and Liverpool. He then appealed to the press, saying, "We also need you," and urged journalists to help shape the narrative.

Expressing surprise at the amount of leaked detail about the German football federation’s negotiations, Klopp said he was "surprised but not annoyed" and hoped for greater restraint from reporters in the future.

At 59, Klopp described the role as potentially the pinnacle of his career, noting, "I am not a blank page any more. Ideally this will be the highlight of my career," and affirmed his readiness to give his all for the national side.

He promised merit‑based selection, stating that any player who performs best, shows genuine desire, and improves after wearing the German shirt will earn a place. Klopp stressed that every player will have a chance under his leadership.

Reflecting on the last World Cup, Klopp observed that Germany exited in the second round after a penalty shoot‑out loss to Paraguay, calling the performance "not bad but with absolute room for improvement."

Finally, Klopp warned that time is limited, noting there are only two months left until the first match, which will be played in the Netherlands, and urged everyone to act responsibly.