Could Philipp Treu Be Jürgen Klopp’s Answer to Germany’s Right-Back Challenge?
On July 24, Jürgen Klopp was unveiled as the new head coach of Germany amid intense media attention. Following a disappointing World Cup exit under Julian Nagelsmann, marked by a round-of-32 defeat to Paraguay, Klopp stepped in with clear determination. He emphasized that turning things around would require fresh ideas and teamwork, not just within the national squad but perhaps for the entire country. Klopp mentioned he is closely watching 57 outfield players, and among them, Philipp Treu stands out.
Philipp Treu: The Rising Right-Back from SC Freiburg
The 25-year-old right-back from SC Freiburg has steadily climbed the ranks through careful, deliberate progress. Now an undisputed starter for Freiburg, Treu has contributed to the club qualifying for European competition two years in a row. Last season, his journey took him all the way to the Europa League final against Aston Villa. His solid performances put him in contention for the German national team, especially in a position that has been problematic recently.
The Right-Back Dilemma in the German Squad
Treu himself acknowledges the limited options Germany has at full-back. Speaking with kicker, he described the competitive landscape realistically. This scarcity forced Nagelsmann to reposition Bayern Munich’s Joshua Kimmich—usually a defensive midfielder—back to right-back. After the poor showing against Paraguay, Kimmich moved back into midfield, where fans and experts prefer to see him. Klopp now has an opportunity to try alternatives like Treu at right-back.
"It would be a dream of mine to wear the eagle on my chest one day," Treu told Sky.
Comparisons to Kevin Großkreutz
In some ways, Treu reminds people of Kevin Großkreutz, a player Klopp once transformed at Borussia Dortmund. During the 2013/14 season, Großkreutz was pressed into service as a makeshift right-back due to shortages and impressed so much that he earned a World Cup call-up. Großkreutz’s relentless energy, tireless running, and physical strength were traits Klopp valued then—and Treu brings similar qualities to Freiburg today.
Steady Growth and Career Decisions
Three and a half years ago, Treu’s dream of playing for Germany felt distant. Back then, he captained Freiburg's second team in the 3. Liga. When deciding his next step in summer 2023, he chose to leave rather than remain a fringe Bundesliga player. For €500,000, he joined FC St. Pauli in the 2. Bundesliga, immediately earning promotion and helping the club stay up in the top flight the following season.
Return to Freiburg and Market Value Surge
In 2025, Treu returned to Freiburg for €5.5 million—a significant jump from the fee paid two years earlier. Sporting director Klemens Hartenbach praised his development, calling it "superb." Treu’s market value now stands around €15 million. Reflecting on his progress, Treu told kicker, "The way things have gone recently gives me enormous pleasure, but I’m always hungry."
Looking Ahead: A Spot in the National Team?
Klopp values that hunger deeply, and it’s unlikely his expectations will shift with the national team. Given Treu’s ability to address Germany’s right-back problem, he could well take the next step in September when Klopp announces his 26-man squad for the Nations League. If so, Treu’s dream of representing Germany might finally become reality.
- Date of announcement: July 24, 2026
- Player age: 25 years old
- Clubs: SC Freiburg, FC St. Pauli
- Transfer fees: €500,000 (to St. Pauli), €5.5 million (return to Freiburg)
- Market value: €15 million
- Notable achievement: Europa League final with Freiburg in 2025
