Jurgen Klopp emerges as ‘top target’ for national team as they make initial approach for Liverpool legend: Reports

The United States have reportedly identified former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp as their top target. They parted ways with Gregg Berhalter this week and have now made initial contact with the 50-year-old.

As per a report in The Independent, the United States want to do well in the 2026 FIFA World Cup on home soil. Thus, they are keen on getting a top manager. They have now plotted a move to lure Klopp after sacking Berhalter.

The USMNT decided to take quick action after they were eliminated from the Copa America during the group stage. They lost to Panama and Uruguay while managing to beat Bolivia in the group stages of the tournament.

USMNT Technical Director Matt Crocker confirmed on Wednesday that they have begun the search process just nine days after the exit. He said:

“Our immediate focus is on finding a coach who can maximize our potential as we continue to prepare for the 2026 World Cup, and we have already begun our search process."

Jurgen Klopp is currently without a job after leaving Liverpool at the end of the 2023-24 season.

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Why did Jurgen Klopp leave Liverpool?

Jurgen Klopp confirmed in the middle of the 2023-24 season that he was set to leave Liverpool in the summer. The German stated that he was running out of energy and needed a break from football management.

He told Liverpool's official website:

"I can understand that it's a shock for a lot of people in this moment, when you hear it for the first time, but obviously I can explain it – or at least try to explain it. I love absolutely everything about this club, I love everything about the city, I love everything about our supporters, I love the team, I love the staff. I love everything. But that I still take this decision shows you that I am convinced it is the one I have to take."

"It is that I am, how can I say it, running out of energy. I have no problem now, obviously, I knew it already for longer that I will have to announce it at one point, but I am absolutely fine now. I know that I cannot do the job again and again and again and again. After the years we had together and after all the time we spent together and after all the things we went through together, the respect grew for you, the love grew for you and the least I owe you is the truth – and that is the truth," he added.

Jurgen Klopp was linked with a return to his former club Borussia Dortmund, while RB Leipzig were also said to be interested in hiring him.