Jurgen Klopp causes a stir with controversial comments on World Cup hydration breaks

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16:05, Thu, Jun 25, 2026 Updated: 16:05, Thu, Jun 25, 2026 Jurgen Klopp has had his say on the hydration breaks (Image: BBC Sport)Jurgen Klopp was heralded as a bastion of common sense during his time as Liverpool manager, but the German coach has risked the wrath of English football fans after defending the hydration breaks being used at the World Cup. The controversial introduction has angered fans during this summer’s tournament in North America, with fans arguing they have restructured the format of the sport.Every match at the World Cup is stopped midway through each half, for a three-minute pause that allows players to take on fluids and speak to their manager.

Read our Privacy PolicyWater breaks have been a fixture of World Cups in the past, but only when the temperature has exceeded a certain amount. It is the case that many matches at the World Cup are being played in hot and humid conditions, but there are also examples of the temperature being lower in stadiums with roofs because of air conditioning systems.Much to the surprise of many, Klopp has thrown his support behind the breaks in play, telling the BBC: “It’s really hot and it’s good for the players.

But that’s the thing.”Before adding: “It’s completely fine but I understand when you sit at home and then the commercials start… but being my age, it is a welcome break to go to the toilet!”UEFA have already committed to not having a mandatory hydration break in every match at the European Championship in two years time, unless the temperature is above a certain point. And it’s very difficult to accept that a coach might have the opportunity to influence a match by making adjustments simply because it’s hotter, while in another match, where the temperature is slightly lower, the same coach doesn’t have the same opportunity.