As Germany prepare for UEFA Nations League fixtures against Serbia and the Netherlands, Werder Bremen striker Niclas Fullkrug has spoken about his recall to the national team and his evolving role under Jurgen Klopp.
Emotions and meaning behind Germany recall
Fullkrug has earned a return to the Germany national team on the back of a strong start to the Bundesliga season, where he leads the league scoring charts with nine goals. He has been named in Klopp's 24-man Germany squad for the final UEFA Nations League group matches.
The forward, who has 24 caps for Germany, admitted that coming back into the international setup brings a sense of validation for his club performances. Fullkrug told reporters: "I’m delighted to be back. It’s recognition of the work you put in and how you perform for your club."
He also underlined how much he values the chance to work with Klopp and to integrate into a Germany squad that has undergone significant changes. Fullkrug told reporters: "It’s great to be part of the national team again and to have the chance to train under Jurgen Klopp."
Fullkrug described reconnecting with the group, noting the mix of old and new faces in the dressing room. He said: "I’ve caught up with a lot of familiar faces and met plenty of new ones too. The squad looks very different now and you can really feel how much has changed. I’m happy that I can just be myself and that people respond positively to that."
Tactical responsibilities under Klopp
Fullkrug outlined that his tactical responsibilities in Klopp's high-intensity system differ from his role at Werder Bremen. He contrasted his recent Bundesliga duties with what is expected of him in the national team setup. Fullkrug said: "My role is quite different now. I’ve been getting a lot of touches in the Bundesliga recently and I’m needed in different areas of the pitch. With the national team, I might be more of an out-and-out finisher."
Fullkrug's current form provides Germany with a physical focal point as they conclude their 2026 international calendar.
He is eager to make an impact as Germany prepare to face Serbia and the Netherlands.
Views on Serbia and Netherlands matches
Germany will travel to Belgrade to face Serbia on Friday, before hosting the Netherlands in Berlin on Monday. Fullkrug commented on a performance against Serbia. He said: "We watched an excellent performance against Serbia, and I don’t think people fully appreciated just how much intensity and commitment the players showed. We want to bring even more of that intensity to our game."
Fullkrug stated that Germany want to bring even more intensity to their play in the upcoming UEFA Nations League matches.
Career setbacks and bond with Werder Bremen
Fullkrug reflected on his time playing abroad, explaining that fitness issues were his main challenge during that period. He said: "I was never miserable during my time abroad. I’m very grateful for those experiences because there’s more to life than just football."
He added: "The biggest issue was that I struggled to stay fit. I haven’t forgotten how to play football in that time."
Fullkrug credited his seamless transition back to Werder Bremen for rejuvenating his career and spoke of a deep familial connection to the club. He said: "Werder Bremen is my footballing home. I immediately feel comfortable there. It’s a club with a lot of history and tradition. I first joined when I was 14, and when I look at the staff now, 70, 80 or even 90% of them are still the same people."
