Kovac Reveals: Shares Info with Klopp, Gets German Squad List 2-3 Days Ahead of Public Release

Kovac revealed at a pre-match press conference that he communicates closely with Klopp and obtains the German squad list 2-3 days before it is made public. Three Bayern players were selected for the national team, while Baye was disappointed to be left out. Kovac, drawing on his own national team coaching experience, said it is difficult to accommodate every player's interests. Schlotterbeck remains on the mend after a long injury absence and played only 60-70 minutes in the previous round. He will not feature in all four upcoming matches and is expected to play just two. Since most of the squad are called up to national teams, Kovac plans to send Schlotterbeck to the national team training camp. Karatzas has completed his full training schedule and will travel to Stuttgart with the team, while the remaining players are available for the weekend. Kovac assessed the first five matches positively, praising the defense and transitions, though he acknowledged there is room for improvement in ball possession. Overall, he believes the team's direction is in line with expectations.