Karius: Klopp appointment opens door for Germany call-up after Schalke rebirth

The appointment of Jurgen Klopp as Germany's new head coach has given a fresh jolt of hope to Loris Karius - a player whose career arc has gone from Champions League final heartbreak to a stunning revival at Schalke 04. Karius, 33, was once considered one of Liverpool's worst-ever signings after his high-profile errors in the 2018 Champions League final against Real Madrid. But after years of drifting through Besiktas, Union Berlin, and Newcastle, the goalkeeper dropped to the 2. Bundesliga in early 2025 and rediscovered his best form under Miron Muslic at Schalke. Last season, Karius played a pivotal role as Schalke won the second-tier title and secured a return to the Bundesliga. Now back in Germany's top flight, the former Mainz shot-stopper believes he can force his way into Klopp's plans. "I don't know what he's planning," Karius said. "But I'm playing for Schalke in the Bundesliga now - the conditions aren't bad. If I deliver top performances, I might become a candidate." Karius is realistic but hopeful. During his unveiling, Klopp made clear that no player is excluded from consideration. "The ones who will play are the ones who are good enough. The ones who are hungry," Klopp said. "My door is open." With Manuel Neuer having retired again and Oliver Baumann now 36, the Germany goalkeeping situation is wide open. Karius, who believes he has another World Cup cycle left in him, sees a window - and he intends to charge through it.