Klopp warns Germany’s Kimmich that no place is guaranteed

Jurgen Klopp has made clear that Joshua Kimmich’s position in the Germany midfield is not assured, saying the team must select players according to form and tactical needs.

Klopp confirmed that Alexander Pavlovic and Jonas Urbig will start against Greece on Sunday in the fourth round of the Nations League. His comments were reported by Bulinews during the Germany manager’s news conference.

Speaking about Pavlovic, Klopp joked: “I told Pavlovic immediately before the press conference that he cannot speak in a way that would see him left out of the team.”

Klopp also indicated that Urbig is expected to remain in goal, despite speculation that Finn Dahmen of Augsburg could make his Germany debut.

“At the moment, it looks as though we will not make a change in goal tomorrow, but who knows what we will do,” said Klopp.

“The other goalkeepers who have been with us play regularly for their clubs. Urbig does not play regularly for Bayern Munich, which is why he will get the chance to play this match.”

That decision had been planned, according to Klopp, although he stressed that the goalkeeping options had all made a strong impression.

“That is how we planned it. But everyone has left a great impression, and there will be no problems in this position,” he added.

Kimmich’s place under discussion

Questioned about the debate over whether Kimmich should be considered indispensable to Germany, Klopp rejected the idea that one player must feature in every match.

“He played a good game against Serbia. But why should one player always play in the future?” Klopp said.

“You also have to be in good shape to play. You would not play for your club if you were not in your best condition either. We need different types of players.”

Kimmich has been a regular figure for Germany, but Klopp said the team’s midfield requires a variety of qualities rather than relying on a single established name.

“We need leaders and players who are able to cover large areas of the pitch, and we need all types of players,” he said.

“Fortunately, we have more than 3 good players in midfield.”

The comments underline the competition for places in Germany’s midfield while also confirming that Pavlovic will start against Greece. Urbig’s selection means Dahmen will have to wait for the opportunity to win his first international cap.