Jurgen Klopp Faces Simple Demand as Germany Boss with Promise of 'Heavy Metal Football'
Jurgen Klopp has been given a straightforward task as he begins his role as manager of the Germany national team: to be "less sh*t." Former Germany defender Robert Huth told GOAL that Klopp’s style, often dubbed "heavy metal football," will bring excitement and intensity to the international stage as Germany chases success at the Euros and World Cup.
From Liverpool Legend to Germany’s New Leader
After stepping down from his iconic nine-year spell at Liverpool in 2024, where he secured both Premier League and Champions League trophies, Klopp took a break from coaching. He shifted to a role as Head of Global Football at Red Bull, which allowed him to enjoy family life without the pressures of team selection or transfers.
Still, the pull of the dugout was strong. Klopp was linked with several top jobs across Europe, including Real Madrid. Eventually, after Germany’s disappointing 2026 World Cup exit under Julian Nagelsmann, Klopp accepted the call to manage Die Mannschaft, signing a contract through the 2030 World Cup.
Expectations and Potential Impact
When asked what success looks like for Klopp, Robert Huth joked, "Be less sh*t!" He explained that the bar isn’t set very high currently but emphasized how Klopp’s arrival has already united the nation’s football community.
“Everyone was going, ‘yes, yes, now we’ve got that guy who we wanted 10 years ago’,” Huth said. “He has the personality, mindset, and knowledge to bring the nation together again.”
Huth highlighted Klopp’s no-nonsense approach during his first press conference, which left a strong impression. Klopp demanded more effort and fight from players representing Germany, focusing on pride and commitment without blaming previous managers.
“If you want to play for Germany, you’re going to have to run harder, fight harder, and care more when you put the badge on,” Klopp said.
The former defender noted Klopp’s positive relations with Bundesliga clubs, mentioning his attendance at many preseason and league games. While victory is the aim, he acknowledged the tough competition from nations like France, England, Brazil, and Argentina.
Looking Ahead to Upcoming Matches
Klopp’s tenure starts with a UEFA Nations League match against the Netherlands on Thursday at the Johan Cruyff Arena in Amsterdam. Germany’s first home game under Klopp will be on Sunday against Greece at Augsburg’s WWK Arena. Euro 2028 qualifying kicks off in March 2027, with Germany seeking to improve upon their recent major tournament results, which peaked with a quarter-final run at Euro 2024.
- UEFA Nations League Match: Netherlands vs Germany
- Date & Time: 24 September 2026, 21:45
Hope for a Return to Intensity
Huth expressed excitement about Klopp potentially bringing the high-energy, spirited football seen at Liverpool and Dortmund to the national side, calling it "heavy metal football." He admitted it’s challenging to replicate such intensity in international football but believes if anyone can do it, Klopp can.
“We’ve been sh*t since 2014, so a semi-final would be all right. But if Germany can replicate any kind of Liverpool’s and Dortmund’s intensity, pace, energy, spirit, I’m getting excited!”
