Jurgen Klopp announces extensive Germany squad following World Cup exit

Following Germany's elimination from the 2026 World Cup and the subsequent departure of coach Julian Nagelsmann, former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has taken the helm of the national team. Significant personnel changes have occurred, with Antonio Rudiger announcing his retirement from international football and Manuel Neuer having previously departed. In a strategic move ahead of upcoming Nations League matches, Klopp has called up a preliminary squad of 44 players, split into two groups of 22. This roster includes 16 players who have yet to earn a senior cap, 11 of whom are receiving their first call-up.

Klopp has identified Marc-Andre ter Stegen, currently on loan at Ajax from Barcelona, as the team's primary goalkeeper. The national team faces a rigorous schedule, beginning with an away match against the Netherlands on September 24, followed by a home game against Greece on September 27, a clash with Serbia on October 1, and a second encounter with Greece on October 4. Notably, the squad selection excludes Deniz Undav, Oliver Baumann, and Leroy Sane. Klopp emphasized that there is no distinction between an 'A' or 'B' team, as the goal is to win all four opening Nations League fixtures.