Liverpool teammates Florian Wirtz and Kostas Tsimikas found themselves on opposite sides when Germany faced Greece in an international friendly.
The match was particularly interesting because of the connection between Tsimikas and former Liverpool manager Jürgen Klopp, who is now in charge of Germany.
Tsimikas played the full 90 minutes for Greece, helping his country secure a historic 1–0 victory over Germany. Greece scored through Dimitrios Kourbelis in the 74th minute, handing Klopp his first defeat as Germany’s manager.
Wirtz, meanwhile, came on as a substitute in the second half after joining the German squad following an injury-related change. Despite his introduction, he could not help Germany find an equaliser.
Tsimikas reveals his conversation with Klopp
Following the match, Tsimikas shared details of his emotional reunion with Klopp. The Greek defender had worked under the German coach at Liverpool and clearly maintained a strong relationship with him.
Tsimikas revealed that he jokingly told Klopp he had used the lessons he learned from him to defeat his own team.
Klopp reportedly laughed and congratulated his former player after the surprising result.
The Liverpool left-back described the relationship as one built on love and respect, highlighting how much his former manager meant to him.
Wirtz and Tsimikas prepare to return to Liverpool
Both players were expected to return their attention to club football following their international commitments.
Wirtz, who joined Liverpool as a major attacking signing, is expected to play an important role in the club’s midfield and attacking plans.
Tsimikas, on the other hand, continues to compete for opportunities at left-back while representing Greece at international level.
Their international meeting provided an interesting storyline for Liverpool supporters, particularly because of the connections involving their former manager.
