Jürgen Klopp: The national coach relativizes his 'media scolding'

Jürgen Klopp, the newly appointed head coach of the German national football team, has sought to clarify his earlier, widely discussed remarks concerning the media. During his official introduction, Klopp had stated that he would leave if the media no longer wanted him or if they misbehaved and disturbed his family. Now, he has admitted that he did not "really like" that his comments were interpreted as a broad attack on the press.

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That was my mistake.

"That was my mistake," Klopp said in a video interview with DFB.tv, using air quotes around the term "Medienschelte" (media scolding). He explained that his intention was to prevent a repeat of the intense scrutiny his family faced from the English tabloid press after his departure from Liverpool in 2024. "I wanted to say: That will not happen again," he stated, comparing the tabloids' pursuit of him and his family to "flies on honey."

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I wanted to say: That will not happen again.

Despite the initial controversy, Klopp reiterated his strong desire for the new role. He emphasized that he feels welcomed by the German Football Association (DFB), noting the presence of "really good people" within the organization. He believes he does not need to start from scratch, despite Germany's disappointing performance at the last World Cup. Klopp also expressed eagerness to collaborate with Bundesliga coaches on player load management and plans to connect with the national team players soon, emphasizing the need to get to know them not just as athletes but as individuals.

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flies on honey