Klopp demands positive patriotism and rejects the AfD controlling German pride

Jürgen Klopp presented his first squad at the helm of the Germany national team, with 44 footballers divided into two groups for the upcoming matches of the Mannschaft in the Nations League. The announcement coincided with the victory of the far‑right Alternative for Germany (AfD) in the state elections of Saxony‑Anhalt, which prompted a strong statement from the coach.

A call for positive patriotism

At the press conference, Klopp wore a cap with the colours of the German flag and the slogan “One of 83 million”, referring to the country’s population. From there, he launched a call for “positive patriotism”, stating that he does not want national pride to fall into the hands of the wrong people.

“I would like to reclaim the flag for me, or for us, to be completely honest,” declared the former Liverpool. He added that he wants, when the flag is waved, nobody to think that there is something wrong with the person displaying it, but that happiness and gratitude for being born or living in Germany should be perceived.

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Klopp emphasized that he feels “proud to be German and to remain open, diverse, kind and courteous”. He noted that football has the ability to foster a sense of community and to demonstrate the power of sport.

The coach’s words come just after the AfD won in Saxony‑Anhalt this month, reinforcing Klopp’s stance against extremist politics.