Klopp names 44 players – Müller marvels at the XXL squad
Although Thomas Müller and Jürgen Klopp spent a lot of time together during the World Cup, the first squad nomination by the new national team coach surprises the Bayern striker. Klopp has nominated 44 players for the first four internationals – a step that Müller did not expect. The unusual size of the squad raises questions about the coach's future playing idea.
Unusual Squad Size
The veteran of the MLS club Vancouver Whitecaps wrote on LinkedIn that Klopp had done something unusual: nominating 44 players for an international match programme, which had never happened before. “No one expected that,” he emphasized.
Thomas Müller, however, does not see the XXL squad as a mistake. He explained that Klopp is giving many players the chance to showcase themselves in the national team. The squad actually comprises two rosters for the first four internationals.
During the World Cup, Müller and Klopp worked together as an expert duo for MagentaTV, even though the tournament was disappointing from the German perspective. The 37‑year‑old Müller, long‑time striker of FC Bayern Munich, is now in a purely spectator role.
German media predict three-way points race in Nations League group
First Internationals and Opponents
Müller explains which opponents Klopp will face first: the debut comes against the Netherlands in the Nations League. After the away match, two duels with Greece follow and another with Serbia. This is Klopp's first course as national team coach.
After the injury‑related withdrawal of Brajan Gruda, Klopp can still draw on 43 players. Thus the squad remains large despite the loss.
Müller further emphasized that he expects a clear signature from coaches that gives players direction. “I prefer one more than the other, perhaps less so,” he said, adding that a coach with a clearly recognizable playing idea provides an important point of reference for players.
Zidane thrives while Klopp struggles after World Cup shake‑up
The juxtaposition of Klopp's bold squad decision and Müller's analytical stance shows that the new chapter of the German national team will be both experimental and reflective. Observers can look forward to seeing how the unusual squad proves itself in international football.