Klopp Backs Deniz Undav Over Jamal Musiala Debate

Jurgen Klopp put deniz undav ahead of Jamal Musiala for Germany's World Cup opener against Curacao on Sunday night in Houston. The 58-year-old's call quickly drew pushback from Lothar Matthaus, with Julian Nagelsmann then fielding questions about it at a later press conference.

Klopp and Magenta TV

Klopp made the case while working as a pundit for German broadcaster Magenta TV during this summer's World Cup. He said, “Luckily, Julian Nagelsmann is still picking the team – for now.” He also said, “We've brought Undav into the game because he can play in the number 10 role.”

Thomas Muller joined Klopp in the studio, and Matthaus later said he was “very surprised” when he saw the pair advise playing Deniz Undav instead of Jamal Musiala in the opening match. Matthaus added, “I feel that lacks sensitivity,” and said Germany needs the quality of a Musiala to have a successful World Cup.

Nagelsmann Faces the Fallout

Nagelsmann was asked about Klopp's comments at a subsequent press conference. He replied, “I'm surprised that the request is coming from you,” then added, “Good. Then. Next question.”

Matthaus sharpened his criticism after that exchange, saying, “Klopp's comments aren't exactly making Nagelsmann's job any easier.” He also said, “Such interference isn't well received, especially among fellow coaches.”

The debate leaves Germany's opener in Houston with a public selection argument attached to it, and the names at the center of it are the ones with the most pull: Klopp, Nagelsmann, Matthaus, Muller, Undav and Musiala. Klopp's view put the Stuttgart forward in the spotlight; Matthaus made clear he preferred the Bayern playmaker, and Nagelsmann now has the scrutiny that comes with hearing both sides in public.