Nagelsmann Steps Down as Germany Coach, Klopp Considered Successor
The German Football Association (DFB) has announced the immediate resignation of Julian Nagelsmann as head coach of the national football team. This decision comes following Germany's early exit from the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where the team was eliminated by Paraguay in the first knockout round after a penalty shootout.
The DFB leadership confirmed that the contract with Nagelsmann was dissolved following his own request to step down. The decision was made unanimously during a virtual meeting of the association's supervisory board and shareholder representatives, based on a proposal from the DFB president. Nagelsmann explained that the choice was difficult but necessary after careful consideration and discussions with close associates and federation officials. He emphasized the team's need for a fresh start after the disappointing tournament results.
During his tenure, which began in September 2023 as the successor to Hansi Flick, Nagelsmann aimed to lead Germany to World Cup victory. His appointment was seen as the preferred solution by the DFB leadership at the time, given his prior experience managing Bundesliga clubs such as TSG Hoffenheim, RB Leipzig, and Bayern Munich. Under his guidance, Germany reached the quarterfinals of the 2024 European Championship, losing to eventual champions Spain in extra time.
The recent World Cup marked Germany's third consecutive elimination before the round of 16, following similar outcomes in 2018 and 2022. Despite Nagelsmann's initial declaration that he would not step down after the loss to Paraguay, he later reversed his position, citing the need for accountability and a new direction for the team.
In the aftermath of Nagelsmann's resignation, the DFB has indicated that it will approach Jürgen Klopp as a potential candidate for the vacant head coach position. Klopp, who has been serving as Head of Global Soccer at Red Bull GmbH since January 2025, previously achieved significant success as manager of Borussia Dortmund and Liverpool FC, including multiple domestic and international titles. At the time of the announcement, Klopp was working as a pundit for Magenta TV during the World Cup.
The DFB's consideration of Klopp reflects a desire for experienced leadership as the national team looks to rebuild. The association has not commented on other possible candidates, nor has it discussed the future involvement of Rudi Völler, the 1990 World Cup winner and current sporting director, who played a key role during Nagelsmann's term. Additionally, Andreas Rettig, the DFB's managing director of sport, has informed the federation that he will not extend his contract beyond the end of the year for personal reasons.
Germany's next international fixture is scheduled for September 24, with a Nations League match against the Netherlands. Other group opponents for the remainder of the year include Greece and Serbia. The selection of a new head coach is expected to be a priority for the DFB in the coming weeks to ensure stability and preparation ahead of the next competition cycle.
The developments signal a period of transition for the German national team, as the organization seeks to address recent disappointments and lay the foundation for future success with new leadership on and off the pitch.