Injury crisis forces Klopp to fast‑track Wirtz into Germany

Comments Sport Ben Husband Sports News Editor 10:13, 26 Sep 2026 View 2 Images reported that Florian Wirtz has joined up with Germany earlier than expected, forcing Jurgen Klopp to call him up after a double injury blow. The call‑up comes as Klopp begins his first camp as national team manager, following his appointment as Julian Nagelsmann’s successor.

Klopp steps into a unique period for international managers, with nations facing four fixtures in an extended match window that stretches over several weeks. This compressed schedule adds pressure to assemble a competitive roster quickly.

Two‑squad strategy

The former Liverpool boss introduced two separate squads. The first was slated to play the Netherlands and Greece, while the second, featuring Wirtz, was earmarked for Serbia and the return match in Greece. The first squad travelled to the Netherlands before meeting Greece.

After Jamal Musiala and Kai Havertz suffered injury issues in the draw with the Netherlands, Klopp was forced to react. Wirtz, alongside Frankfurt striker Jonathan Burkardt, joined the squad and will be available for the next three matches, starting with Greece on Sunday night.

Liverpool problems: Klopp's comments on Wirtz and DFB selection chance

Wirtz’s club form

At Liverpool, the German forward has made six appearances this season, recording just one assist. Andoni Iraola praised his contribution, saying: “He is a good player out of possession who helps us in our press… his stats are similar to the number‑10s of other teams, but numbers alone do not tell the whole story.” His performances have been praised despite the modest assist tally.

Klopp echoed a similar view, stating: “Well, someone will score the goals and someone will give the assists. It is not that because you had the last touch, you played better than the other person.”

He was also keen to stress that there is no de‑facto ‘B team’. “I want to get to know as many players as possible,” Klopp explained. “The squads are put together in a way that makes sense on the pitch and in terms of character and experience.” He believes character and experience are as important as tactical fit.

In his first match in charge of Germany, Klopp’s side settled for a point after Cody Gakpo scored a 92nd‑minute equaliser for the Netherlands.