Jurgen Klopp makes public apology after causing FIFA World Cup controversy
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Liverpool FC NewsFeaturesJurgen KloppJurgen Klopp sparked a row in the German camp ahead of the World Cup when he used the word 'still' on live TV when referring to Julian Nagelsmann as Germany manager, leading to a grovelling apologyJurgen Klopp has apologized after comments on Julian Nagelsman(Image: 2026 Getty Images)Jürgen Klopp has issued an apology to Julian Nagelsmann after questioning his longevity as Germany manager. He suggested Nagelsmann should leave out Bayern Munich's Jamal Musiala for the opening fixture against Curacao.However, it was a single word he used during a conversation with fellow pundit Thomas Müller that has prompted Klopp to make a contrite apology.
Klopp employed the word "still" when discussing Nagelsmann's position as national team manager.He said: "Luckily, Julian Nagelsmann is still picking the team", implying his tenure might be short-lived, depending on Germany's tournament performance.Klopp has been heavily touted as Nagelsmann's potential successor. It just slipped out so casually, and has absolutely no relevance."What I've realised is, I'll be 59 on Tuesday and I'm still an idiot."Klopp has made clear he stands firmly behind Nagelsmann, telling him: "We are completely on your side, whatever you do with this.
Nothing will come of it that is intended to disrupt the process here."Germany head coach Julian Nagelsmann during a friendly match against Ghana in MarchNagelsmann was subsequently confronted with Klopp's remarks during a press conference, when a Sport Bild journalist pressed the Germany head coach for his reaction. "I'm surprised that the request is coming from you," Nagelsmann responded.He then turned the tables on the reporter, asking for their own assessment of Klopp's words, to which the journalist replied: "A little prickly."Bringing the exchange to a close, Nagelsmann coolly retorted: "Good.