Jurgen Klopp has addressed speculation about replacing Gareth Southgate as England manager. He has stated that he currently has no plans to return to football management. Klopp, who left Liverpool in May, led the Reds to numerous victories, including the Premier League, Champions League, FA Cup, Club World Cup, and two League Cups during his nine-year tenure.
Jurgen Klopp’s decision to step down, announced in January, surprised many. He wanted a break after nearly 23 years of continuous managerial work. Despite his departure, rumors have linked him to various roles, including succeeding Southgate as England boss after Euro 2024. However, Klopp has firmly denied any interest in these or other positions. Instead, he prefers to enjoy his time away from the spotlight.
Speaking at the International Coaches’ Congress in Wurzburg, Germany, Jurgen Klopp said: “At the moment, there is nothing at all in terms of jobs. No club, no country.” He added that it would be the biggest embarrassment in football history if he were to say, ‘I’ll make an exception for you now.’ Thus, he remains firm in his decision to stay away from coaching roles for now.
“I’m going to do some work. I’m too young to only do padel tennis and grandchildren. Will that be coaching again? I would actually rule that out at the moment. Let’s see what it will look like in a few months. Nothing is coming through at the moment,” Klopp continued. Consequently, he remains focused on other pursuits.
With Graham Potter, Eddie Howe, Lee Carsley, and Mauricio Pochettino mentioned as potential candidates for the England job, Klopp has reiterated his disinterest in returning to coaching roles for now. “As of today, that’s it for me as a coach. I didn’t quit on a whim, but it was a general decision. I’ve also coached the best clubs in the world,” he added.
“Maybe we can talk about it again in a few months. I still want to work in football and help people with my experience and contacts. Let’s see what else there is for me,” Klopp concluded.
