Jurgen Klopp and officials from the German Football Association (DFB) have made progress towards a potential contract for Klopp to take on the role of Germany coach. Discussions took place in New York between DFB president Bernd Neuendorf, vice-president Hans-Joachim Watzke, Klopp, and his adviser Marc Kosicke. An agreement on key contract points was reached during the meeting, with further talks scheduled for the following week.
The meeting, which lasted over four hours, marked the first direct negotiations between Klopp and the DFB regarding his possible appointment as the national team coach. Both parties are optimistic about finalizing the negotiations, pending approval from Klopp’s current employer, Red Bull. The next phase of discussions is expected to involve Red Bull chief executive Oliver Mintzlaff, who plans to travel to the United States during the World Cup final week.
Klopp, who is currently under contract with Red Bull until 2029, is anticipated to sign a new contract running until 2030 upon his return to Germany. Additionally, Klopp’s longtime assistants Peter Krawietz and Pepijn Lijnders are likely to join him at the DFB. Klopp has expressed interest in contributing to structural matters within the DFB, emphasizing that any eventual contract must be endorsed at a joint meeting of the supervisory board and shareholders’ assembly of DFB.
Hans-Joachim Watzke, who has a history of successful collaboration with Klopp during their time at Borussia Dortmund, expressed his belief in Klopp’s affinity for Germany. Klopp, currently in the U.S. as a television expert for the World Cup, is expected to continue his role until further developments arise.
