AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS - OCTOBER 31: Goalkeeper Marc Ter Stegen of AFC Ajax celebrate the win during the Eredivisie 2026/27 match between AFC Ajax and AZ Alkmaar at Johan Cruyff Arena on October 31, 2026 in Amsterdam, Netherlands. (Photo by Dijks Media/MB Media/Getty Images)
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Jurgen Klopp announced his latest Germany squad this week for upcoming Nations League fixtures against Serbia and the Netherlands.
There was no room for Barcelona’s Karim Adeyemi but on-loan goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen did make the cut and will be Germany’s No. 1.
Klopp spoke about the stopper at a news conference and confirmed he will be first choice.
“Marc is having a fantastic season in Amsterdam, and fortunately, the other two [Urbig and Nübel] are also having really good seasons,” he said.
“We’re going into these matches with Marc as our number one. And this isn’t about who happens to be making the better saves at any given moment, because goalkeepers need to provide a lot of stability and confidence.
“The number one requirement for a goalkeeper is to make sure the ball doesn’t end up in the net. That’s the most important thing.
“But beyond that, there are several other aspects that matter: How can he dictate our game, including when we’re in possession? How does he handle these situations? And when we’re defending with a high line, how early can he recognise those situations so that he can defend further up the pitch as a goalkeeper?
“It’s a strange way of putting it, but essentially, it’s about knowing when to come out and deal with the danger – not trying to dribble, but simply clearing the ball. All of these things are part of the job. Marc has the most experience in this area, and, yes, we’re going into these matches with him as our number one.”
Ter Stegen’s been enjoying regular game time again this season with Ajax after recovering from injury which forced him to miss World Cup 2026.
He’ll now be hoping his cement his position as Germany’s No. 1 following Klopp’s appointment as the new coach.