Klopp calls for positive patriotism, names 44 players for Nations League

DFB‑coach Jürgen Klopp has nominated 44 players for his debut in the Nations League and used the press conference to deliver a surprisingly political speech about patriotism in Germany, emphasizing that national pride must not be left to the wrong people.

Political Message and Election Context

Klopp referred to the election in Saxony‑Anhalt, where the AfD achieved significant successes, and stated that he is proud to be German while remaining open, diverse and friendly. He spoke of a “positive patriotism” and saw football as a means to develop a sense of community. Although he is not a specialist in politics, he did not want to leave national pride to the wrong people.

He added: “I would like to get the flag back for myself or for us,” and emphasized that one should not look at what one does not have, but at what one does have. They demanded clear answers from him, but he stuck to his message that the squad selection reflects the general situation in the country.

Squad and Tactical Guidelines

For the Nations League matches starting on September 24, Klopp nominated 44 players, including 15 World Cup veterans and 16 potential debutants. He surprised with Vitaly Janelt (FC Brentford) and Mika Baur (Celtic Glasgow) and left popular names such as Deniz Undav and Oliver Baumann out. “It is a squad for the next two or three years, not just for these internationals,” he said, describing the selection as a big casting.

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Captain Joshua Kimmich will play in midfield in the future, as at FC Bayern, while Marc‑André ter Stegen will guard the goal in the first match. In Klopp’s ball‑oriented defence all players are responsible for the defensive work, and he expected immediate greater effort. The desired mentality can be developed like fighting spirit.

Klopp explained that Leroy Sané and Deniz Undav are currently out of form and that Oliver Baumann makes room for younger goalkeepers. Jamal Musiala, Serge Gnabry and Nico Schlotterbeck are to gain match practice after their injuries and are therefore in the squad, as is Finn Dahmen.

Time Pressure, Media and Outlook

Klopp spent an hour and eleven minutes creating a sense of departure, while Germany failed to reach the round of 16 in the last three World Cups. After the World Cup he said that there is a feeling that German football is at rock bottom, yet a lot of talent has emerged. For the Nations League matches against the Netherlands, Greece, Serbia and Greece again, almost the entire team will be changed after two games – a first.

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Heiko Becker photographed Klopp as he paused briefly and then resumed. The 59‑year‑old coach wore a cap with the inscription “One of 83 million,” a reference to his former self‑description as “The Normal One.” He criticized that it is “poor” to make a living by releasing things early, and said he “doesn’t care at all” which names circulate beforehand. “Whether you give me the time or not, I’ll take it,” he concluded.