- 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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