Klopp relies on clear squad structure, Effenberg praises risky step
The eagerly awaited first squad nomination by Jürgen Klopp, in which the 59‑year‑old coach divided 44 players into two groups, has sparked uniformly positive reactions, especially an enthusiastic praise from former national player Stefan Effenberg. He emphasizes that clear signals are being sent and the debates about position changes are over.
Effenberg wrote in his column for t‑online about the unusual measure of allocating 44 players into two squads for the upcoming international match quartet. He praised the decision as a “brilliant chess move” and highlighted that Klopp is sending a positive signal with it.
“But: I understand exactly why Klopp thought this through. He knows exactly what he’s doing,” explained the former Bundesliga professional. He added: “Now no one may whine anymore, he would get no chance. Everyone must now prove that they have been called up to the national team – and want to be called up again.”
Klopp brings clarity to the squad structure
Unlike his predecessor Julian Nagelsmann, Klopp ends the “era of position experiments” and provides clear roles. A look at the nominated players makes it clear that no one is being deployed out of position – a simple but brilliant step. Thus Joshua Kimmich will again line up in defensive midfield.
Klopp also left the injured Leon Goretzka and Leroy Sane out. Effenberg backs this decision and says the former Bayern Munich duo have no future in the DFB, as both were often fringe candidates.
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Risk with two almost different teams
Effenberg, however, warns of the risk of fielding two almost different teams for the matches against the Netherlands, Greece, Serbia and the return match against Greece. He explains: “Assuming it doesn’t work out as hoped – one selection falls significantly short compared to the other, the games turn disappointing – then there will again be voices that criticize him.”
The 58‑year‑old former national player emphasizes that Klopp does not let external voices deter him and believes his measure is correct, although possible criticism cannot be ruled out.
Another difference from the former coach is Klopp’s approach: He spends a lot of time in stadiums and on training grounds to observe the players up close and to seek direct conversation. Effenberg criticized Nagelsmann for “needlessly complicating and over‑scientifying the simplest personnel decisions,” which led to a Euro exit in the quarter‑finals and the failure in the World Cup round of 16.
The contrast between Klopp’s clear, pragmatic style and the previous experimental methods shows that he wants to usher in a new era of certainty – an approach that, despite its risks, is seen by Effenberg as visionary.