Subotic has warned that well-known players should not expect preferential treatment from Klopp, saying the manager has previously dropped leading figures when they damaged team dynamics or failed to follow his tactical approach.
Writing for German sports magazine Kicker this week, Subotic said Klopp’s decisions were not influenced by a club’s internal reaction when he believed a player was undermining the team.
“I want to remind well-known German players that they won’t receive special treatment from Klopp just because of their fame,” Subotic wrote.
“Klopp has previously dropped top players at Borussia Dortmund if he felt they disrupted team dynamics or were unable or unwilling to execute his envisioned style of play. This was entirely independent of the club’s internal reactions. His unwavering conviction, his ability to establish clear systems, and his consistent adherence to them are among his greatest strengths.”
Subotic described Klopp’s demands as extending beyond an individual’s technical ability or status. Players must match the intensity required, carry out their tactical responsibilities consistently and contribute to the collective spirit of the team.
“Playing under Klopp, success depends on your on-field performance, the intensity you bring to the game, your consistency in executing tactical plans, and strong team spirit. You cannot focus solely on yourself; you must wholeheartedly serve the team,” he added.
Advice for Germany’s newcomers
Subotic also outlined what Klopp’s methods could offer the German national team, saying it would be a major opportunity if the side could develop the same physical and mental unity associated with his teams.
“For the German national team, it would be an excellent opportunity if they could truly become a Klopp-style unit, united both physically and mentally. As long as the foundation is solid, his football philosophy means they can beat any opponent, regardless of pitch conditions or opponent strength,” he wrote.
The players joining the national team for the first time should approach the experience positively while committing fully to Klopp’s instructions, according to Subotic.
“The national team’s newcomers should enjoy the game, give their all, listen carefully to Klopp’s demands, and implement them with full commitment,” he said.
Subotic added that mistakes would not necessarily define a player’s performance. More important to Klopp, he said, was the response that followed.
“If you make a mistake, move on. Klopp pays close attention to these details; how you react to mistakes is very important to him because it reveals your character,” Subotic wrote.
