Jurgen Klopp starts a full-team press against the Netherlands with just one hand signal.
Germany’s new head coach, Jurgen Klopp, gave fans one of the season’s most exciting moments with just a simple hand gesture that sparked his famous full-team press against the Netherlands. After taking over from Julian Nagelsmann, Klopp made his return to the sideline on Thursday night, two months into his new role.
It was a night of ups and downs for Klopp, who saw his team’s lead taken away by a last-minute goal from Cody Gakpo, spoiling his much-awaited debut for Germany.
One of the coolest parts of the game happened when Klopp’s single hand signal triggered every German player to press the Dutch team, right as defender Jan Paul van Hecke was about to get the ball. This moment quickly caught attention on social media, with fans joking about Klopp’s “demonic pressing” and calling it “the Klopp-effect.”
Germany’s Felix Nmecha scored first with a simple tap-in, but the team couldn’t add another goal. Xavi’s side fought back to earn a hard-earned draw at the Johan Cruijff Arena.
Klopp is already making big changes behind the scenes, according to BILD. He’s set some strict rules for the players, including no haircuts at the team hotel—players must book appointments before joining the squad. Phones are off-limits before games, and everyone must arrive on time for team dinners, which Klopp has carefully planned.
Known for focusing on teamwork and discipline, Klopp is also limiting family visits during major tournaments to build better communication and unity among the players. While no punishments have been announced yet for breaking these rules, BILD reports that Klopp is “completely overhauling” the national team.