Klopp handed 44 players two squads for Greece, the Netherlands and Serbia, then trimmed them down after four matches. Who stood out?
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The experienced shot-stopper has struggled with injuries in recent seasons, and the presence of Manuel Neuer in between the sticks before that, but has now been made Germany’s first-choice keeper under Klopp.
“A team needs stability and a spine, and then you can add a lot of youth around that,” explained the former Borussia Dortmund boss. “I’ve known him for ages. Manuel Neuer was the best goalkeeper in the world for a long time. Nevertheless, everyone knew that ter Stegen was world-class too.”
The young Bayern Munich ‘keeper built on his fast-growing reputation with two assured performances, and two clean sheets, in the win over Serbia (2-0) and the draw against Greece (0-0).
The 23-year-old, seen as Neuer’s successor at club level, has appeared twice for the Rekordmeister this season, in the DFB Cup against Osnabrück and their Matchday 3 win over Elversberg, and is clearly highly thought of by Klopp too. If Urbig can start to rack up more appearances for Bayern, he could soon provide strong competition for ter Stegen.
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After a long wait, Marc-André ter Stegen will have his shot as Germany’s No.1. – IMAGO/osnapix / Marcus Hirnschal –>
Right‑back Philipp Treu seized the role, logging full 90 minutes in three games while Klopp eyed a true right‑flank defender, moving Kimmich back into midfield.
His relentless work rate and sharp crossing made him the obvious starter on that side of the pitch.
Josha Vagnoman featured only in the narrow loss to Greece, and Ridle Baku never saw the field, underscoring Klopp’s faith in Treu.
Philipp Treu looks set to earn a spot in Klopp’s XI. – IMAGO/Richard Wareham
With more than 80 caps combined, Tah and Schlotterbeck bring poise, experience and ball skill, making them hard to displace as Germany’s centre‑back duo.
In my view, Schlotterbeck’s recent injury woes shouldn’t eclipse his quality; when fit, he partners perfectly with the ever‑steady Tah.
Dortmund’s Schlotterbeck and Newcastle’s Thiaw are next in line, having made strong cases in recent weeks.
They kept clean sheets together against Serbia and in Thessaloniki, prompting Klopp to call their partnership “very interesting.”
Watch: Pass‑master Nico Schlotterbolt