The German FA have hit back at reports claiming they have held talks with Jurgen Klopp over taking charge of the national team.
Klopp confirmed to the Liverpool board privately in November that this season would be his last as the club’s manager, making this news public towards the end of January and citing fatigue as his main reason for stepping aside.
Back in his native Germany, reports have suggested Klopp could become the manager of the national team after Euro 2024 once Julian Nagelsmann’s short-term contract expires.
However, in an interview with German magazine Focus, the German FA’s managing director Andreas Rettig refuted such claims.
“There has been no contact. He has given himself a break. I don’t know whether we should be giving him travel tips on how to enjoy his free time,” he said. “He wants a break and that’s why it is not an issue.”
Klopp has been linked with various roles since confirming his departure from Liverpool, though has stressed he will never manage in England again and is unlikely to make a return to coaching until 2025 at least.
Last week, the Mail reported he has been identified as a top target for UK broadcasters BBC and ITV as a leading pundit for their Euro 2024 coverage. However, he is set to decline their offers and attend the championships as a fan having already purchased tickets to Germany’s three group stage matches.
Meanwhile, Liverpool are continuing their search for a replacement to Klopp, though are keen to bring in a new sporting director before finalising a managerial appointment. Former sporting director Michael Edwards is in line to return to the club in a grander capacity than his previous role, with Richard Hughes a leading contender to take on the directorial job.
