Jürgen Klopp trims squad: Hoffenheim striker Conté misses start in Amsterdam
In the training camp in Frankfurt, Jürgen Klopp faces his first mandatory task as national team coach: He must cut a player from the 24-man squad for the Nations League duel against the Netherlands, because UEFA only allows 23 spots. The decision comes shortly before the away match in Amsterdam, which will be played next Wednesday.
The official matchday squad, which UEFA published before the encounter, reduces the 24-man DFB squad to 23 players. Thus one man from Jürgen Klopp's group must step aside. The photo that was circulated in the media shows the coach making the difficult choice.
Decision and affected player
It is now confirmed that the 24-year-old forward Bambasé Conté of TSG Hoffenheim will not take part. Conté will watch the game in Amsterdam from the stands, as he does not appear in the official 23-man squad. The UEFA list confirms that he has been removed from the matchday squad.
"Yes, I already know, but since something could still happen during the night, we will announce it tomorrow. I have already spoken with the player," the national coach explained.
Klopp had already announced on Wednesday that a player had to be cut from the squad. This prior information made the final decision little surprising.
Before Klopp's debut: Classic Germany vs Netherlands in Nations League
Outlook on the next international match
For Conté, the measure does not represent a long-term setback. Klopp emphasized that the 23-year-old will be back in the squad for the next Nations League match against Greece. The duel takes place on Sunday in Augsburg and could be Conté's debut for the A national team.
The reason for the reduction lies in UEFA regulations: In the Nations League, a maximum of 23 players may be in the matchday squad. For the first two fixtures, Klopp initially nominated 24 professionals.
Conté therefore remains part of Klopp's plan and can now focus on the game against Greece. There he will have the chance to wear the DFB jersey on the pitch for the first time.
Klopp expects a smooth debut against the Netherlands
The decision marks the start of Klopp's era as national team coach and shows how closely UEFA's guidelines influence squad management.