Jurgen Klopp has spoken about his future for the first time since stepping down as Liverpool manager, putting to rest speculation about a quick return to management, Soccernet.football reports.
Klopp, who spent nearly nine years at the helm of Liverpool, departed at the end of the 2023/24 season.
During his tenure, he guided the Reds to numerous titles, including the Premier League, Champions League, FA Cup, League Cup, UEFA Super Cup, FA Community Shield, and FIFA Club World Cup.
Since his departure, Klopp has been linked with various managerial positions, notably with the England and United States national teams.
The English FA is currently on the hunt for a new manager following Gareth Southgate’s exit after the Euro 2024 final loss to Spain.
However, in remarks reported by Sky Sports, Klopp has firmly dismissed the notion of an immediate return to the dugout.
Sky Sports presenter Hayley McQueen relayed Klopp’s comments: “We know that Jurgen Klopp is currently enjoying an extended break from football having left Liverpool. If you’re wondering what he’s up to, he’s ruled out a quick return to coaching and says he is definitely not going to be England’s next manager.
“He’s been speaking at the International Coaches Congress, he said job wise nothing at all, no club and no country. People must not have heard that part.”
She added: “He said that would be the biggest loss of face in the history of football if I said I’ll make an exemption for you. So there you go, Klopp was in charge at Liverpool for nine years and he definitely wants to take a year off.
“He was asked as well about work and he said I will work at something, I’m too young to just play padel tennis and only spend time with my grandchildren, would I be coaching again? I would rule that out at the moment, we will see how things look in a few months.”
As the FA continues its search, other names linked with the England job include Thomas Tuchel, Eddie Howe, Graham Potter, Mauricio Pochettino, and Ange Postecoglou.