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Topics: Jurgen Klopp, Liverpool, Football, United States
Ryan Smart
Former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has made his final decision on whether to take over as the new United States head coach, it has been reported.
The German left his role at Liverpool following the conclusion of the 2023/24 season.
He had indicated his desire to take a break from professional football, and even reportedly turned down punditry roles with the BBC and ITV during Euro 2024 in order to watch the matches as a fan.
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But his name was linked with the vacant USMNT role after Gregg Berhalter was sacked on Wednesday.
Berhalter was sacked after USA suffered a surprise elimination from the 2024 Copa America - of which they are hosts as part of a historic agreement between CONCACAF and CONMEBOL - at the group stage.
Former Everton goalkeeper Tim Howard told the Daily Mail that he would be prepared to fly to Spain personally and attempt to convince Klopp to replace the controversial former manager.
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The Independent subsequently reported that USA officials had made 'initial contact' with Klopp over potentially taking over the position, in what would have been a shock appointment.
However, The Athletic report that the 57-year-old has rejected the chance to enter talks over a swift return to management, despite being the USMNT's top candidate.
They say that Klopp has reiterated his plans to take a break from football, and he will not be taking up the position as a result.
The German had an uninterrupted nine-year spell as Liverpool boss, and spoke on a number of occasions about his decision to depart Anfield being related to burnout.
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Upon announcing his intention to resign in January, he explained: "You have to be the best version of yourself, especially for a club like Liverpool where it means so much.
"I cannot do it on three wheels. It is not allowed. I have never wanted to be a passenger.
"My managerial skills are based on energy and emotion, and that takes all of you and needs all of you.
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"I am who I am and where I am because of how I am, with all the good and bad things. If I cannot do it anymore, then stop it.
"I thought my energy level was endless [when signing a new contract until 2026] and now it is not."