Jurgen Klopp has no intention of inserting Florian Wirtz straight into Germany’s starting XI for their Nations League clash with Greece.
Wirtz was initially included in Klopp’s second-choice squad for the extended international break but was played a game earlier than planned following injuries to Kai Havertz and Jamal Musiala.
He arrived at the team’s training base on Friday and was given just one session as Germany prepares for its next game.
It will be Klopp’s first home appearance as Germany coach – a 1-1 draw with the Netherlands in the opening game – but Wirtz will not start.
When asked if Wirtz was a starting candidate, Klopp replied: “It’s a huge ask indeed.”
“He found [Friday] We arrived in the morning and arrived here in the evening, and then we said: Since we are here, let’s just go in and play.
“It’s definitely the worst thing we can do right now.”
Wirtz has had a difficult start to the season and has been criticized for Liverpool’s performance so far this season, particularly after their 1-0 win over Bournemouth.
He has made six appearances for Liverpool in all competitions this season and has only provided one assist despite creating 12 chances – the third-highest number among Reds players.
But Klopp, while cautious about talking about Liverpool players as the club’s former manager, believes Wirtz will only improve.
“No matter what I say, whether it’s positive or negative, it’s going to be a huge story in this situation,” Klopp said of Wirtz’s situation at Liverpool.
“Flo Wirtz’s football ability is unquestionable. We will work together to ensure that he can demonstrate his ability on the pitch again every three days.”
“We’re definitely going to do whatever we can to contribute to that. Overall, I think he’s on a very good path. But basically the world we live in is such that things never happen fast enough for people.”
Klopp’s debut as Germany manager didn’t quite go to plan, with the Netherlands missing all three points when he equalized through his former player Cody Gakpo in the 92nd minute.
But Klopp is determined to win at Augsburg as he gets his first chance to lead the team in front of home fans.
Marc-Andre ter Stegen played a huge role in ensuring Germany stayed in the game, making nine saves against the Netherlands, who allowed 22 shots and an expected goals against of 3.2 (xG).
However, Klopp confirmed he will make a goalkeeper change against Greece, with Alexander Nuber also set to feature.
Klopp said: “I heard Mark was criticized – after a game the opposition manager said he saved our bacon, which surprised me.”
“He made some good saves but on two occasions he hit the ball unintentionally – that happens. I’m not critical of that at all but very pleased with his performance.”
“Alex will still play, not because of this. He deserves it too. I hope he enjoys it and keeps a clean sheet.”