Nagelsmann Exits as Germany Coach After World Cup Flop; Klopp Eyed
Julian Nagelsmann has officially stepped down as the head coach of the German national football team following their disappointing Round of 32 exit at the FIFA World Cup 2026. The German Football Association (DFB) has confirmed his departure and is now in discussions with former Liverpool manager Jürgen Klopp, who has expressed his fundamental willingness to take over the role.
Key Highlights
- Julian Nagelsmann resigns as Germany's head coach.
- Departure follows Germany's early exit from World Cup 2026.
- Germany eliminated by Paraguay in Round of 32 via penalties.
- Jürgen Klopp is top candidate to succeed Nagelsmann.
- Klopp indicates readiness for talks regarding Germany job.
- DFB thanked Nagelsmann for his tenure since September 2023.
Julian Nagelsmann has officially resigned from his position as the head coach of the German national football team, a move that comes in the wake of Germany's deeply disappointing performance at the FIFA World Cup 2026. The German Football Association (DFB) confirmed the immediate termination of his contract, which was originally set to run until the 2028 European Championship. Nagelsmann's departure follows Germany's stunning elimination in the Round of 32, where they lost to Paraguay in a penalty shootout after a 1-1 draw on June 29, 2026, in Boston. This marked Germany's third successive World Cup failure, having previously exited in the group stages in 2018 and 2022, and was also their first-ever penalty shootout defeat in World Cup history.
The DFB announced that it would begin discussions with Jürgen Klopp, the highly regarded former Liverpool and Borussia Dortmund manager, who has already indicated his fundamental willingness to consider taking on the national team coaching role. Klopp, who left Liverpool at the end of the 2023-24 season after a trophy-laden spell, had been working as Red Bull's global head of football and as a pundit during the World Cup. Media reports suggest he has a verbal agreement that would allow him to leave his current role for the Germany job.
Nagelsmann, 38, took over the German national team in September 2023, succeeding Hansi Flick. Initially, his contract was until the end of UEFA Euro 2024, but it was extended in January 2025 to cover the 2026 FIFA World Cup and subsequently until Euro 2028. Despite this extension and a period where he was credited with restoring some belief in the national team, the World Cup 2026 exit proved to be the tipping point. Nagelsmann reportedly held a three-hour meeting with DFB officials in Frankfurt, where he was urged to depart voluntarily and was offered a severance package of around €7 million, approximately one year's salary.
In a statement, Nagelsmann expressed his regret and pain over the team's failure to deliver more memorable football nights at the World Cup, emphasizing that his top priority had always been the success of the team. He stated that after such a bitter disappointment, the team deserved a chance for a fresh start. DFB President Bernd Neuendorf and Sporting Director Rudi Völler both expressed their thanks to Nagelsmann for his commitment and ambition since he took the helm. His assistants, Benjamin Glück and Benjamin Hübner, are also set to depart.
The potential appointment of Jürgen Klopp is seen as a significant move for German football, which has been grappling with an identity crisis following a series of poor tournament performances. Fans and officials alike hope that Klopp's energetic style and proven ability to revitalize teams can restore the Mannschaft's competitiveness and pride on the international stage. The decision comes at a critical juncture for German football as it looks to rebuild and prepare for future major tournaments, including Euro 2028.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Julian Nagelsmann step down as Germany coach?
Julian Nagelsmann stepped down as Germany's head coach following the national team's disappointing exit from the FIFA World Cup 2026. Germany was eliminated in the Round of 32 after losing to Paraguay in a penalty shootout.
Who is expected to replace Julian Nagelsmann?
Jürgen Klopp, the former manager of Liverpool and Borussia Dortmund, is the leading candidate to replace Julian Nagelsmann as Germany's national team coach. The DFB is in talks with Klopp, who has expressed his willingness to take on the role.
What was Germany's performance at the FIFA World Cup 2026?
Germany's performance at the FIFA World Cup 2026 was disappointing, as they were eliminated in the Round of 32 by Paraguay after a 1-1 draw that went to a penalty shootout. This marked their third consecutive early exit from a World Cup tournament.
When did Julian Nagelsmann's contract with the DFB expire?
Julian Nagelsmann had extended his contract with the German Football Association (DFB) until 2028 in January 2025. However, following the World Cup exit, the DFB terminated the contract with immediate effect.
What is the significance of this coaching change for German football?
This coaching change is highly significant for German football, as the national team has faced an 'identity crisis' with a series of poor tournament performances. The DFB hopes that a new coach, particularly one with Jürgen Klopp's track record, can revitalize the team and restore its competitiveness and pride.
