Klopp bypasses Urbig over captain query for Serbia match in Munich
Jürgen Klopp remains vague on the eve of the Nations‑League clash against Serbia in Munich when it comes to the captain: He mentions Jonas Urbig only as a joke, while emphasizing that the player with the most international caps leads the field and that he has followed this practice throughout his entire career.
Captain rule and experienced players
The national coach explained: “The team is led onto the pitch by the player who has the most international caps,” and added: “If the player council was not on the field, the one with the most appearances wore the armband.” With this he makes clear that the captaincy selection is based on caps.
After the departure of the majority of “squad one” around the regular captain Joshua Kimmich, who was only in the squad for the first two matches against the Netherlands (1‑1) and Greece (0‑1), Serge Gnabry with 61 international caps is the candidate with the most appearances. Behind him follow Florian Wirtz with 46 caps and David Raum with 39.
Potential newcomers and tactical options
Who could still make a debut against Serbia? Defender Finn Jeltsch as a Schlotterbeck replacement, midfielder Vitaly Janelt (FC Brentford) and Cologne youngster Said El Mala have the chance to earn their first international cap; overall, nine players without an international appearance are in the squad.
Ahead of Urbig, mainly proven players are expected: Ridle Baku and David Raum on the wings as well as Waldemar Anton in the centre. Should Klopp choose Jeltsch, he would have to involve Malick Thiaw.
In the 4‑3‑4 system, Vitaly Janelt is expected to take over the spot of the departed captain Joshua Kimmich in the midfield six. In the more advanced midfield positions, Klopp counts on Aleksandar Pavlovic, born in Munich, and Florian Wirtz.
Young wingers Lennart Karl and Said El Mala are likely to occupy the flanks, while Jonathan Burkardt is considered as a target striker, after being subbed on against Greece. Nick Woltemade is available as an alternative.
The contrast between the clear rule for the captain and the many unsettled line‑ups shows that Klopp both honours experience and gives young talents space, while leaving the final decision open until match day.