DFB director gives 11-word response as Jurgen Klopp linked with Germany job

Jurgen Klopp has long been the first-choice candidate among the hierarchy of German football to take charge of the national team.

While Joachim Low was in charge, there was always speculation that Klopp was being lined up as his eventual successor. But in 2021, they were unable to lure the Reds boss away from Anfield.

The job ended up going to Hansi Flick after an incredible couple of years at Bayern Munich - but after an ill-fated stint at the Germany helm, he would get the sack in September of last year.

Once again, Klopp was earmarked as the ideal replacement. But as had been for the past eight years, they were unable to poach him from Liverpool and procure his services.

However, following Klopp's shock announcement last month that he will be departing Anfield come the end of this season, Germany's eyes have lit up. They may finally have their opportunity to bring their countryman into the fold.

Their current boss, Julian Nagelsmann, sees his contract expire at the end of this year's European Championships, which are hosted in Germany. This has led many to speculate that the national setup may go after Klopp in autumn.

As such, DFB managing director Andreas Rettig was posed the big question regarding what Germany would do if Klopp was open to taking the reins.

Rettig provided a simple yet intriguing response: “Then we have to think about how to deal with it.”

Convincing Klopp to come aboard will be easier said than done from a German point of view.

The Reds boss cited him 'running out of energy' as the key reason for his departure, all but confirming that a lengthy sabbatical is in the docket.

Therefore, it seems highly unlikely that Klopp would return to management just three months after he steps out the Anfield door.

Nevertheless, if Klopp was to come back into management down the line, Germany would seem like the obvious option - fulfilling a role many have pegged him for throughout his career.