Julian Nagelsmann reacts as Jurgen Klopp's subtle World Cup dig causes stir
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Jurgen Klopp has been working as a World Cup pundit for German TV, and the former Liverpool boss has drawn criticism after making remarks about Julian Nagelsmann's team selection in North AmericaJulian Nagelsmann was asked about Jurgen Klopp's comments(Image: Getty Images)Germany's head coach, Julian Nagelsmann, has addressed remarks made by Jurgen Klopp, who is also facing criticism from a fellow television pundit.Legendary Liverpool manager Klopp has taken on punditry duties for this summer's World Cup, which will be held across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The 58-year-old left his role as Liverpool manager in 2024 and has since become head of global soccer at Red Bull, though he remains linked with a potential return to management.Klopp is presently working for German broadcaster Magenta TV, and during Germany's World Cup opening fixture against Curacao on Sunday evening in Houston, the discussion turned to Nagelsmann's future.The former Liverpool boss is reported to have remarked: "Luckily, Julian Nagelsmann is still picking the team – for now."These comments were made directly to Nagelsmann at a subsequent press conference, where a Sport Bild journalist challenged Germany's coach."I'm surprised that the request is coming from you," Nagelsmann stated.
He then reversed the question onto the reporter, enquiring what they thought of Klopp's comments, to which the Sport Bild journalist answered: "A little prickly."Jurgen Klopp (right) speaking at the World Cup(Image: Magenta TV)Concluding the exchange, Nagelsmann replied: "Good. Next question."Klopp, appearing alongside Bayern Munich icon Thomas Muller in the studio, also offered his perspective on Germany's starting XI for their opening fixture against Curacao, making the case for Stuttgart striker Deniz Undav over Bayern's Jamal Musiala."We've brought Undav into the game because he can play in the number 10 role," Klopp stated on Magenta TV.The comments have sparked considerable backlash from German soccer legend Lothar Matthaus, who challenged Klopp's views on the national team's potential starting formation."I was very surprised when I saw that Jurgen Klopp and Thomas Muller advised playing Deniz Undav instead of Jamal Musiala in the opening match," Matthaus told Sport Bild.
I feel that lacks sensitivity."Jurgen Klopp, of all people, should know better. That's why he needs to be given trust and playing time."Matthaus continued: "Klopp's comments aren't exactly making Nagelsmann's job any easier.