Klopp explains why he drops ter Stegen after his strong performance

Jurgen Klopp, head coach of the German national team, explained on 24 September (September) 2026 at the Johan Cruijff Arena in Amsterdam why Barcelona goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen / Marc ter Stegen will not play the upcoming match against Greece after his performance against the Netherlands in the UEFA Nations League.

Marc-Andre ter Stegen returned to the Germany squad for the midweek match against the Netherlands, after having missed the 2026 World Cup due to an injury. Nevertheless, the Barcelona goalkeeper will miss the fixture against Greece that will be played on Sunday (Sunday).

Goalkeeper rotation under Klopp

Coach Jurgen Klopp, in his capacity as manager, stated that ter Stegen's absence on Sunday is part of an agreement to give minutes to Alexander Nübel. “Alexander Nübel will start in goal, that was the agreement,” Klopp said, adding that the decision surprised some.

Opponent's reactions and Klopp's assessment

The opposing coach remarked that the German goalkeeper had saved “our bacon”, but Klopp defended that ter Stegen played “exceptionally well”. He assured that, although he made some mistakes, there are no criticisms and he is “very, very happy” with his performance.

Klopp decides: Nübel instead of Ter Stegen for first home match

A photograph provided by ANP via Getty Images shows ter Stegen focused before the match. In the same broadcast, the code TER appeared as a reference for the transmission.

After the match against the Netherlands, Germany will face Serbia and Greece during the international break, giving Klopp multiple opportunities to observe his three goalkeepers.

Klopp picks Nübel, Ter Stegen stays on the bench against Greece

Since taking charge of the German national team, Klopp has emphasized the importance of rotation and competition among his goalkeepers.