Klopp launches attack on Trump and Infantino! FIFA's decision sparks new scandal
Steven Perez
Dailysports's expert
Jürgen Klopp didn't mince his words.
Details: The former Liverpool head coach Jürgen Klopp delivered a scathing response to reports that U.S. President Donald Trump may have contacted FIFA President Gianni Infantino, urging him to reconsider the suspension of U.S. national team striker Folarin Balogun.
The German tactician declared that such interference could cast doubt on the entire decision-making system in football.
"If Trump and Infantino really struck a deal between themselves, that's madness. It calls everything into question. These two people, both of whom have no clue about football, shouldn't be involved at all. This is our game, not theirs," Klopp said live on MagentaTV.
The ex-Liverpool manager also noted that even in such a situation, the U.S. national team could have chosen on its own not to field Balogun, in order to avoid escalating the controversy.
Earlier, FIFA lifted Balogun's one-match suspension after he was sent off in the 2026 World Cup round of 16 match against Bosnia and Herzegovina. This allowed Balogun to play in the round of 8 clash with Belgium.
Reminder: Belgium has been given the opportunity to appeal the decision to lift Balogun's suspension.
