Klopp backs Germany rebuild and calls for patience despite recent tournament setbacks

Jurgen Klopp says Germany have the quality to return to the top level but must be given time to rebuild after a run of disappointing tournament results.

The four-time world champions were knocked out by Paraguay in the last 32 of the World Cup, their third successive early exit from the competition. They had previously failed to progress from the group stage in 2018 and 2022.

Klopp took charge in the summer and was speaking before Friday’s Nations League fixture against Serbia in Belgrade. The former Liverpool manager rejected suggestions that Germany’s squad lacked talented players and said he was encouraged by the balance within the team.

“I have a super positive outlook on this team. To be honest, we have a very good mix,” Klopp said.

He acknowledged that Germany had yet to consistently show their ability in competitive matches, but insisted the underlying quality was there.

“I’m not naive or wide-eyed – we’re genuinely very good. We just need to make that visible, to translate it onto the pitch.”

Klopp also accepted that improved results would not come immediately. He said he needed time to introduce his ideas and develop the squad, while asking for patience as the rebuilding process continued.

“I have to allow myself the time,” he said. “We are on the right path – though we are, of course, still a long way from the end. The foundation, however, is genuinely good.”

The Germany manager singled out Florian Wirtz as a key player for the future and praised the midfielder’s fitness and recent progress.

“Flo is in top condition. He can be an immense help to us,” Klopp said.

Wirtz has shown improved form under Liverpool manager Andoni Iraola, providing three assists in his past four Premier League appearances. He also scored his first league goal of the season in Sunday’s 3-1 win against Crystal Palace.

The 23-year-old is in line to win his 50th cap for Germany when they face the Netherlands on Monday.

Wirtz said the squad had become more settled under Klopp and that the players were increasingly applying their work from training to matches. He also indicated he was prepared to accept more responsibility within a young Germany side.

“I feel like we’ve gelled even better and solidified the things we’ve been working on in training. It comes down to bringing will, conviction, and passion onto the pitch,” he said.