Klopp claims to know more Dutch players than Xavi before the duel

Jürgen Klopp, the new national team coach of Germany, says that he personally knows more Dutch players than Xavi Hernández, the coach of the Oranje, just as the two nations face each other on Thursday. Klopp emphasizes that this is not a disadvantage, but rather an advantage for his upcoming debut.

Upcoming duel between the Netherlands and Germany

The Netherlands and Germany meet on Thursday in a friendly duel, with Klopp leading his first match as Germany's national team coach. The match gives both managers the chance to test their new squads.

Klopp sees the Netherlands as a strong opponent for his debut with Germany. He believes that the quality of the Dutch side, under the guidance of a new manager, will pose a serious test.

"I don't know anyone I'd rather play against now. No team that would make me think: 'Luckily it's them.' I really wouldn't know," said Klopp at the press conference.

The German coach also makes a separate comment about Xavi. Because of his past at Liverpool, where he worked with many Dutch players, he is convinced that he now knows more Dutchmen than the Oranje national team coach.

"We met the players on Monday and we play on Thursday. And the coach knows the players from TV. I know more Dutch players personally than Xavi does," repeats Klopp.