Jurgen Klopp shares his best thoughts yet on World Cup hydration breaks as a new idea is brought to FIFA.
Former Liverpool coach Jurgen Klopp has shared a fresh perspective on the hot topic of World Cup hydration breaks and even suggested a small change for FIFA.
Among the new rules introduced for the 2026 World Cup, hydration breaks have sparked the most discussion. Fans, experts, and players say these three-minute pauses, called halfway through each half by referees, disrupt the flow of the game.
These breaks happen in every match, no matter the weather, as part of FIFA’s push to protect players’ health.
Netherlands defender Virgil van Dijk was the first big name to speak out after the first week of matches. He said, “I think hydration breaks are interesting. I’ve watched nearly all the games, and every time we pause for commercials, I’m not a fan. For people watching on TV, it’s not great either. If it’s really hot, breaks make sense, but each game should be looked at on its own. I think I’ve said enough.”
Van Dijk’s words encouraged other players and coaches to share their thoughts. England coach Thomas Tuchel said the breaks “interrupt and change the identity of a football match.” He added, “I’ve had breaks before in really hot games, but they were shorter and less frequent. Now it’s in every match for both teams. It breaks the game into four quarters, and it changes how the match feels more than I expected.”
France star Kylian Mbappé had a softer opinion. The Real Madrid forward said players tend to react emotionally, explaining, “If we’re winning at the 25th minute and there’s a break, it’s annoying because it stops our rhythm. But if it’s hot or we’re losing, I think it’s helpful.”
Meanwhile, Klopp, who has been working as a TV commentator during the tournament, shared an interesting view. He said he would actually welcome the breaks as a coach. “It’s really hot, so the breaks are good for players. Are they good for coaches? I’d have loved them! Maybe they’re a bit long right now—two and a half minutes is more than you need just to drink. But they do serve a purpose. At the stadium, it’s fine because there’s a bit of entertainment—you get to see cheerleaders, and I liked that on the big screen in Dallas.
“It’s okay, but I get why people watching at home don’t like the commercials. Still, at my age, the breaks are a welcome chance to visit the restroom!”