Klopp denies wanting to "get rid" of Musiala amid criticism from Matthaüs
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After Lothar Matthaüs critiqued Thomas Müller and Jürgen Klopp's opinion to start Undav over Musiala against Curaçao, the Red Bull chief attempted to clarify any misunderstandings.
“We were told that there had been some discussion about our lineup choices,” Klopp said on Magenta TV, referring to a previous debate between him and Müller on the show.
"I've been in a leadership position for 25 years and have worked with people. What you say is important, of course. But it's much more important that the person you're addressing understands.
“Obviously, there were a few misunderstandings, and that simply needs to be clarified. We were asked to provide a starting lineup based on what we were working with. We wanted to show that there are many options,” he explained.
Ex-Germany and Bayern Munich legend Lothar Matthaüs felt Klopp's words were harmful towards Musiala. Klopp, however, since clarified that he only wants the best for the 23-year-old and was looking at the bigger picture.
"Of course, we also want Musiala to play. But he won't be able to play every game from start to finish. In this tournament, the most important game comes right at the end. And you obviously need to be in good form for that one.
"That was absolutely not meant as criticism. Who are we supposed to criticize? We haven't even played yet, neither the coach, and certainly not Musiala, whom everyone loves, including us.
"We want Musiala to quickly develop a sense of his own abilities, to feel confident enough to do everything. And that's obviously not the case at the moment. He hasn't played enough games.
“But that's okay. He'll have plenty of games now, he can find his feet and have a fantastic World Cup. And then I'll be the first one there for him. So it wasn't about: get rid of him. It was about us having other options,” Klopp concluded.
