Klopp leaves Rüdiger and Sane out of Germany squad for Netherlands clash
The first Nations League encounter under Jürgen Klopp’s tenure begins on 24 September, when Germany travel to face the Oranje, yet centre‑back Antonio Rüdiger and winger Leroy Sane will not be on the Platz. Both absences raise questions about retirement, injury or selection.
Rüdiger’s retirement ends DFB tenure
Antonio Rüdiger, the Real Madrid centre‑back, confirmed his Aus from the DFB team in early September. In an Instagram statement he wrote, “Even though the big title was missing at the last tournaments and we had to accept some painful defeats, this time was an extremely special chapter for me, it will shape me forever.” The 33‑year‑old’s decision means he will not feature in the upcoming Nations League match against the Oranje. The statement listed the Namen of the two absent players: Rüdiger and Sane.
Between 13 May 2014 and 2026, Rüdiger amassed 86 caps and scored three goals for Deutschland. He made his debut in a 0‑0 test match against Poland and netted his first international goal on 8 October 2017 in a World Cup qualifier versus Azerbaijan. His résumé includes appearances at five major tournaments – the 2018 World Cup, Euro 2021, the 2022 World Cup, Euro 2024 and the 2026 World Cup.
Rüdiger’s most notable triumph came at the 2017 Confederations Cup, where he helped the German side secure a 1‑0 victory over Chile in the final. Although the subsequent World Cups and Euros ended in early exits, his contributions remained integral to the defensive line. With his retirement, the national side loses a seasoned Mann who has featured in twelve years of international football.
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Sane left out despite fitness
Leroy Sane, the Galatasaray forward, is absent from the squad despite being fit and unpunished. Klopp explained at a press conference in mid‑September that “Leroy has not really found his feet this season” and that he has not yet spoken personally with the player. The German coach, who named an unusually large pool of 44 players, simply chose not to nominate Sane.
Sane has earned 80 caps and scored 18 goals for Deutschland, debuting on 13 November 2015 against France. His first international goal arrived on 15 November 2018 versus Russia. He has featured in Euro 2016 (semi‑final), Euro 2021, the 2022 World Cup, Euro 2024 and the 2026 World Cup. In the current 2026/27 season he has made seven league appearances for Galatasaray without registering a direct goal involvement.
The lack of goal contributions in those seven outings underscores why Klopp doubts Sane’s readiness for the national stage. Klopp added that he will speak with the player soon, leaving the door open for a possible recall if the forward can improve his performances. Until then, both Rüdiger and Sane will remain absent from the Deutschland line‑up for the remainder of the first Nations League period.
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Klopp’s inaugural match on 24 September marks a new era for the DFB team, with selection decisions already signalling a shift in personnel policy. The exclusions of two high‑profile names illustrate the coach’s willingness to prioritise form and commitment over reputation. Fans will watch how the remaining squad adapts as the campaign against the Oranje unfolds.