Klose, highest scorer in World Cups, calls it quits
BERLIN: Germany’s prolific Miroslav Klose, the alltime World Cup top-scorer, announced his retirement on Tuesday at the age of 38.
The striker, Germany’s record scorer with 71 goals in 137 internationals, was without a club after his Lazio contract expired last season and he will now join the national side’s coaching staff.
Klose hit a record 16th goal in World Cup finals during the 7-1 semifinal thrashing of hosts Brazil two years ago, which saw him overtake former Brazil star Ronaldo. Germany went on to win the title in Klose’s last game for his country, but he continued in the Italian league with Lazio.
INVITATION
Klose will join Germany’s coaching staff after an invitation from head coach Joachim Loew and will be on the bench alongside Loew for the 2018 World Cup qualifier away to San Marino on November 11 and the friendly four days later against Italy in Milan.
He will complete an individual training programme with the goal of embarking on a coaching career, the German Football Association (DFB) says.
“I celebrated my biggest successes in the national team, the time was wonderful and remains unforgettable so I am happy to be able to return to the DFB,” said Poland-born Klose.
“The idea has been growing in the last few months to stay on the pitch, but with a new perspective, mainly as a coach. To be able to read a game, to prepare myself meticulously, to develop strategies and tactics —that had already really interested me as a player. I am very grateful to Jogi Loew and (DFB director) Hansi Flick for this opportunity and chance to sharpen my practical skills.”