World Cup 2026: Jurgen Klopp says ‘he could have punched himself’ as he says sorry over Nagelsmann comment

FootballSports
16 Jun 2026 • 4:58 AM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

World Cup 2026: Jurgen Klopp says ‘he could have punched himself’ as he says sorry over Nagelsmann comment

  • Jurgen Klopp has apologised to Germany boss Julian Nagelsmann for a controversial comment made during his punditry for the World Cup 2026 opener.
  • Klopp, acting as a pundit, remarked that "luckily, Julian Nagelsmann is picking the team, still," which sparked debate due to the perceived doubt it cast on Nagelsmann's future.
  • The comment was made during Germany's 7-1 victory over Curacao in their Group E match, where the minnows initially equalised before the heavy rout.
  • During an interview with Nagelsmann, Klopp expressed regret, stating he "could have punched myself in the face" and called himself an "idiot" for the slip-up, assuring full support for the team.
  • Germany, under pressure after group stage exits in the last two World Cups, began their campaign strongly and will next face Ivory Coast on 20 June.

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