League: MLS Sport: Soccer Country: Germany Category: Scores & Results

Jürgen Klopp apologizes to Julian Nagelsmann for team selection joke

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 15, 2026, 12:56 PM

Last updated Jun 15, 2026

Jürgen Klopp apologizes to Julian Nagelsmann for team selection joke

Summary

Jürgen Klopp has apologized to Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann for a joke he made regarding team selection during the World Cup. Klopp, who is serving as a pundit for MagentaTV, faced criticism after suggesting Nagelsmann picks the team 'for now.' Following Germany's 7-1 victory against Curaçao on June 15, Klopp expressed regret, referring to his comment as the "un-word of the year." He emphasized his support for Nagelsmann and the team, calling the joke unintentional and poorly timed. The two shared a handshake after the interview, indicating a resolution.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Klopp's joke was criticized in German media after its release.
•Nagelsmann initially chose not to comment on the joke.
•Germany won their opening World Cup match 7-1 against Curaçao.
•Klopp described his comments as unintentional and regrettable.
•Klopp and Nagelsmann shared a handshake post-interview.

Latest Updates

12:56 PMYahoo Sports — 'Stupid' Klopp apologizes to Nagelsmann for German team selection joke

What they're saying

"
Former Liverpool boss Jürgen Klopp has apologized to Germany boss Julian Nagelsmann for his poorly received joke on team selection. Long tipped to manage the national side, Klopp is working as a pundit at the World Cup for broadcaster MagentaTV alongside ex-Germany star Thomas Müller and joked during the opening match on Thursday that Nagelsmann picks the team "for now.
— Yahoo Sports

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