Germany head coach Jürgen Klopp has criticised individuals who leak team selections ahead of official announcements, describing the practice as “a bit pathetic” while insisting that he had no personal issue with Felix Keidel’s inclusion being revealed early.
Klopp’s comments came after reports emerged that SV Elversberg midfielder Felix Keidel would be included in his first Germany squad for the upcoming Nations League fixtures.
The 23-year-old midfielder, who can also operate at right-back, was reportedly among the surprise names expected to receive a call-up as Klopp begins rebuilding the national team following Germany’s disappointing 2026 World Cup campaign.
Speaking about the leak, Klopp said he had contacted Keidel to ask how the player had handled the intense attention after the news became public.
“I spoke to Felix Keidel again last night and asked him what the last 16 or 17 hours had been like after someone leaked that he will be in the squad.”
Klopp, however, made it clear that the timing of the revelation was not his main concern.
“I can say that I don’t give a damn that it came out early. I have absolutely no problem with that.”
The former Liverpool manager instead questioned the motives of those who make a living from releasing information before it is officially announced.
“I just think it’s a bit pathetic to make a living by putting things out there earlier than people actually need to know them. But whatever.”
Keidel Among Klopp’s Reported New Faces
Keidel’s reported selection has attracted attention because Klopp is expected to introduce several new faces as part of his plans for the German national team.
Reports indicate that Klopp is preparing a broad squad for the forthcoming international fixtures, with young players such as Keidel, Finn Jeltsch, Younes Ebnoutalib and Saïd El Mala featuring prominently in the expected changes.
The reported squad also includes established names such as Joshua Kimmich, Jamal Musiala, Florian Wirtz and Kai Havertz, while Marc-André ter Stegen is expected to return as Germany’s first-choice goalkeeper.
Klopp is scheduled to unveil his first official Germany squad on September 17, ahead of Nations League matches against the Netherlands, Greece and Serbia.
The leak has therefore offered an early glimpse into Klopp’s selection plans, but the coach’s reaction suggests that he remains focused on protecting the players involved from unnecessary speculation and attention before official confirmation.
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