Jürgen Klopp has confirmed that Marc-André ter Stegen will remain the starting goalkeeper for the German national team during the upcoming international break.
Klopp, speaking during a press conference on Thursday, November 5, 2026, described the 34-year-old’s form at Ajax as “fantastic.” While acknowledging that his other two selected keepers have also performed well this season, the manager stated that Ter Stegen remains the clear number one choice for the immediate future. The veteran goalkeeper has made 45 appearances for Germany to date.
Klopp Values High Defensive Line Experience in Goal
The decision to back Ter Stegen is rooted in more than just shot-stopping ability. The German coach specifically highlighted the necessity for a goalkeeper to manage a high defensive line and possess the awareness to leave the goal area to neutralize threats before they develop into scoring chances.
“Marc has the most experience in that area,” Klopp noted. The coach explained that while keeping the ball out of the net remains the primary objective, the ability to dictate play from the back is a key differentiator in his tactical setup. Ter Stegen’s experience with these specific defensive demands was cited as the decisive factor in the selection process, as reported by VoetbalPrimeur.
🇩🇪🧤1️⃣ Jürgen Klopp has named Marc-André TER Stegen as Germany’s Number 1 goalkeeper following the departure of Manuel Neuer from the National Team. Delayed but not Denied! 😮💨#germany #terstegen #neuer #jurgenklopp #klopp pic.twitter.com/gsSbAzCvLR
Klopp Drops Twenty Two Players from Previous Squad
The announcement comes alongside a significant overhaul of the German squad. Klopp has opted to leave out 22 players who were involved in the previous international period. The 24-man roster for the upcoming window features a mix of experienced names and returning players, including Niclas Füllkrug, while notable omissions include Jamal Musiala, David Raum, and Serge Gnabry.
Ter Stegen, who has kept four clean sheets in 14 official appearances for Ajax this season, is expected to start in the upcoming fixtures. Germany is scheduled to face Serbia on November 13, 2026, before hosting the Netherlands in Berlin on November 16, 2026.
Frequently asked questions
Why did Jürgen Klopp change so many players in the squad?
How does Ter Stegen’s performance at Ajax compare to his international rivals?
Klopp stated that both Jonas Urbig and Alexander Nübel have had strong seasons at their respective clubs, but he selected Ter Stegen primarily due to his extensive experience in managing a high defensive line and his comfort in playing the ball under pressure.
When is the next match for Germany?
The national team will return to action on November 13, 2026, when they face Serbia.
More on Jürgen Klopp
🆕 Jürgen Klopp has chosen Marc-André ter Stegen as his number one goalkeeper for Germany. 🧤🇩🇪 Klopp personally called him to express his confidence in him. 🔝 [SPORTBILD] pic.twitter.com/LgUK4r4N03
Klopp: You're my number 1. Ter Stegen: slowly puts the phone down I've heard this one before… Neuer, get out of the closet.
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