Klopp urges Völler to stay as DFB sporting director after phone call

"There is only one" Rudi Völler (66) – and that should also apply to Euro 2028.

Following the resignation of national team coach Julian Nagelsmann (38) and the departure of DFB managing director Andreas Rettig (63) at the end of the year, the key question remains: What will happen to the DFB sporting director?

Rudi Völler asked for time to consider his future after the DFB summit last Thursday in Frankfurt, despite his current contract running until 2028.

What Has Happened Since Then?

The designated national team coach Jürgen Klopp (59) has since spoken to Völler by phone. During that call, he reportedly assured Völler that he would like to keep him at the DFB and work together with him.

DFB sporting director Rudi Völler. Photo: picture alliance/Kirchner-Media

The DFB bosses, including President Bernd Neuendorf (65) and Hans-Joachim Watzke (67), had also made it clear to Völler beforehand that they wished to continue the collaboration.

Earlier, Klopp emphasized:

"Important discussions are being held, because the position of the national coach alone will not change or solve the problems of German football. And accordingly, this is now starting."

Klopp recognizes that even he cannot single-handedly put German football back on the path to success. Völler is intended to be a key cornerstone in the rebuilding of German football.

Outlook

The trend points toward Rudi Völler staying. In an INSA survey commissioned by BILD, a majority voted in favor of this. The decision is expected to be announced this afternoon.

The 2028 European Championship in England, Scotland, Wales, and the Republic of Ireland would then be Völler's final tournament. The sporting director has already made clear that it will be definitively over for him after that.