The Inside Story of Jürgen Klopp and England - and His Rival FA REALLY Wanted

By Mirror Sport Reporter | Published February 2026

In a bombshell revelation shaking the football world, sources close to the FA have disclosed that Jürgen Klopp was the top choice to succeed Gareth Southgate as England manager last year, but a bitter rivalry with another football association scuppered the deal.

Klopp's Secret England Talks

After stepping down from Liverpool in 2024 following a trophy-laden nine years, Klopp was courted aggressively by the FA. Insiders reveal high-level meetings took place in London, where Klopp outlined a bold vision: blending Liverpool's high-pressing gegenpressing with England's young talents like Jude Bellingham, Bukayo Saka, and Cole Palmer.

"Jürgen was our dream candidate. Passionate, proven winner, and his English was flawless. He wanted the job badly," said a senior FA official.

However, Klopp's heart was set on a sabbatical. He demanded guarantees on squad control and youth integration, but ultimately opted for rest, later taking a role with Red Bull as global soccer head.

The Rival FA's Desperate Bid

Enter the plot twist: Germany's DFB (Deutscher Fußball-Bund) emerged as Klopp's fiercest suitor. With Julian Nagelsmann under fire after Euro 2024 woes, the DFB offered Klopp a £15m-a-year deal and full autonomy. Sources claim they "really wanted" him, launching a charm offensive with visits to his Mainz hometown.

"The DFB pulled out all stops—private jets, family invites. It was emotional blackmail," laughed a mutual source. Klopp, a German icon, was torn but prioritized family time over national duty.

What Could Have Been

England turned to Thomas Tuchel, who delivered mixed results, including a World Cup quarter-final exit. Klopp watchers speculate: had he taken the Three Lions job, could England have ended 60 years of hurt? "Jürgen would have ignited that squad," opined Jamie Carragher.

Today, Klopp eyes a potential Bundesliga return, but the "what if" of England lingers. The FA rivalry underscores global tussles for elite coaches in a post-Klopp era.

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