Klopp says he wants to reclaim the German flag after the AfD’s state win

Klopp discusses Germany’s flag amid rise of AfD

While unveiling his first squad, the former Liverpool manager said he wanted Germans to be able to celebrate their country without the national flag automatically carrying a political meaning. 

Klopp said he would “very much like to reclaim the flag” and make it something that could represent everyone.

"From my perspective as a sportsman, I can say that I would very much like to reclaim the flag for myself, for all of us. I want it so that when someone waves it, no one thinks: 'What is wrong with you?' Instead, I want people to understand: You are happy and realise how lucky you were to be born, grow up, or move to this wonderful country."

His comments come after the Alternative for Germany (AfD) received 43.8% of the vote in Saxony-Anhalt, narrowly missing an outright majority in the state parliament. 

The anti-immigration party is also looking for strong performances in Sunday’s elections in Berlin and Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania.

No far-right party has governed a German state since the Second World War.

He says Germany faces bigger issues beyond football

Klopp was careful to point out that he is not a political “expert”, but said the issue is about creating what he called “positive patriotism”. 

"I can be proud to be German while also being open-minded and diverse, and kind and friendly."

He added that football could help create that feeling of togetherness, although he acknowledged that there are more important issues facing the country, including having enough doctors and caregivers.

Klopp’s first Germany squad contains 44 players, including 16 who have never been capped. 

The team begin four Nations League matches within two weeks against the Netherlands in Amsterdam on 24 September.