Klopp’s First Decisions: Kimmich Named Captain, Undav Left Out, Keidel’s Dream Comes True

Jürgen Klopp will make public on Thursday the list of players called up for the upcoming Nations League matches. Germany’s head coach has begun shaping his squad, which is expected to be captained by Joshua Kimmich. The FC Bayern midfielder is seen by Klopp as a decisive player both on the pitch and in the dressing room. The 31-year-old is a leader whose authority is undisputed within the group of players. Klopp contacted Kimmich during the days he visited the FC Bayern team and assured the player that from this moment his role would not change and that he would be deployed on the pitch in front of the defense.

Felix Keidel

As for the call-ups, Klopp has surprised: the list includes the name of Felix Keidel. The SV Elversberg defender will be called up for the first time by the four-time world champions even though he has managed only three appearances in the top flight of German football, the Bundesliga. The 23-year-old will be deployed on the right side of defense, his preferred position, although he can also play as a holding midfielder.

Another surprise comes from the attacking department, where Deniz Undav has been informed by Klopp that he will not be part of the squad list for the next four matches.