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Klopp calls for positive patriotism to combat far-right politics in Germany

3 sources • 2 min read • Latest: Sep 17, 2026, 11:03 AM

Last updated Sep 17, 2026

Klopp calls for positive patriotism to combat far-right politics in Germany
Summary

Jurgen Klopp emphasized the role of Germany's national football team in reclaiming national pride during a press conference in Frankfurt on September 17, 2026. In light of a recent electoral success for the far-right AfD party, Klopp advocated for "positive patriotism," aiming to ensure that pride in the nation is not associated with extremist views. Although he did not reference the AfD directly, Klopp expressed his desire to foster a sense of community through football and indicated that he is open to diverse interpretations of national identity. His initial squad announcement included a large 44-man roster, which he hopes will allow him to evaluate more players during upcoming Nations League matches.

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By the Numbers
  • •Klopp addressed the media in Frankfurt on September 17, 2026.
  • •He discussed reclaiming national pride in response to the AfD's election victory.
  • •Klopp called for football to foster community and inclusivity.
  • •He named a 44-man squad for upcoming Nations League matches.
  • •The move aims to evaluate a larger pool of players over the match schedule.
Latest Updates
  • 11:03 AMYahoo Sports — 'Reclaim the flag': Germany coach Klopp on national pride
  • 10:42 AMThe Guardian Sport — Jürgen Klopp wants his Germany team to reclaim national pride from ‘the wrong people’
  • 10:13 AMYahoo Sports — Klopp wants German team to help reclaim national pride from far-right
What they're saying
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Comments follow far-right election win in Saxony-Anhalt ‘I’d like to reclaim the flag for myself and for us,’ he says Jürgen Klopp has said Germany’s football team can help ensure “national pride is not entrusted to the wrong people” after a recent far-right AfD election victory. In a Frankfurt press conference announcing his first Germany squad, the former Liverpool manager referenced a recent state election win by the anti-immigration Alternative for Germany party. Continue reading...

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Jurgen Klopp said on Thursday that Germany's football team can help ensure "national pride is not entrusted to the wrong people" after a recent far-right AfD election victory. While not mentioning the AfD by name, Klopp advocated for adopting "positive patriotism", while saying: "I don't want to entrust national pride to the wrong people.

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New German national team coach Jürgen Klopp has made a plea for properly understood national pride and openness when he announced his first squad on Thursday for upcoming Nations League matches. "I would like to reclaim the flag for myself or for us, if I'm being completely honest," Klopp told a news conference.

Related Teams & Leagues
LiverpoolBorussia DortmundChampions LeagueSoccer

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