"The poor Serbian left-back!" - Klopp jokes after Gruda's stunning debut

Jürgen Klopp was delighted with Germany's performance against Serbia, insisting that his players need to start believing in their own quality. The national team coach described the display as a major step forward in a process that is still taking shape.

"We have to get used to the fact that we are really good, or can be really good. I told the players that as well," Klopp explained. He also stressed that perfection cannot be expected at this stage, adding that Germany did not need to win every game 10-0 to prove their quality.

One player who certainly caught his attention was debutant Brajan Gruda. The Leipzig winger scored a superb solo goal and received plenty of praise from his coach.

"I remember his time at Mainz, where he scored a similar goal. Even back then, we said he was a really good player. The poor Serbian left-back today," Klopp joked.

"He is an exceptional player. He simply played his game, took risks and had a fantastic performance. His first goal in his first international appearance – that's a pretty good record, isn't it?"

Klopp also had some encouraging words for Bayern youngster Lennart Karl, who missed out on the starting XI. The coach made it clear that the 18-year-old remains an important part of his plans.

"He is a good footballer too. He will play his games for Germany, just not today. I'm happy that we have players like him as well," Klopp said.

Germany have now put themselves in a position to reach the Nations League quarter-finals, with Monday's clash against the Netherlands effectively becoming a knockout encounter.

"We have it in our own hands to reach the next round on Monday. That was our goal," Klopp stated. "We want to show what we can do, what we have learned and how we are developing together. The first task is to show the world out there that we can play good football."