Jürgen Klopp and the German Football Association (DFB) have reached an agreement on the key elements of a potential contract for Klopp to take over as Germany national team coach, following their first direct negotiations in New York on 11 July 2025. The DFB confirmed the breakthrough after a meeting that lasted more than four hours, marking a significant step toward Klopp's return to German football management.

The New York Meeting

DFB president Bernd Neuendorf and DFB vice-president Hans-Joachim Watzke met Klopp and his adviser Marc Kosicke in a conference room at the TWA Hotel at John F. Kennedy International Airport. In a statement, the DFB said: 'During the constructive exchange, an agreement was reached on the key points of a potential contract. Talks will continue next week.'

The DFB added that 'both sides are confident that the negotiations — subject to an agreement with Klopp's current employer, Red Bull — can ultimately be successfully concluded.' Any final contract must be ratified at a joint meeting of the supervisory board and shareholders' assembly of DFB GmbH & Co. KG.

The Red Bull Hurdle

Klopp is currently under contract with Red Bull until 2029, meaning the company's formal approval is still required before he can formally take charge of the national side. Red Bull chief executive Oliver Mintzlaff is expected to enter the next stage of discussions, with reports indicating he planned to travel to the United States during the final week of the FIFA World Cup.

This contractual dependency on Red Bull represents the primary remaining obstacle. Until Mintzlaff's involvement produces a resolution, Klopp's appointment cannot be finalised, regardless of the DFB's own readiness.

What a Klopp Deal Would Look Like

Klopp is expected to sign a contract running until 2030 upon his return to Germany. His long-time assistants Peter Krawietz and Pepijn Lijnders are also reportedly set to join him at the DFB, bringing the core of his trusted backroom staff into the national setup. Klopp has also expressed interest in contributing to structural matters within the DFB — a broader role than that of a conventional head coach.

Succeeding Nagelsmann

Klopp would take over from Julian Nagelsmann, who led Germany through a transitional period. Watzke, who shared a celebrated chapter with Klopp during their years at Borussia Dortmund, expressed confidence ahead of the New York meeting. 'I know that Jürgen loves Germany,' Watzke said. Klopp is currently in the United States in a television punditry role for the remainder of the World Cup, making the timing of these negotiations particularly significant.

What Happens Next

Talks between the two parties are scheduled to continue the following week. The critical next step will be securing Red Bull's agreement to release Klopp from his existing obligations. Once that is resolved, a formal contract will need to be approved at the DFB's joint supervisory and shareholders' meeting before any appointment can be made official.