Julian Nagelsmann has resigned as Germany head coach following the country’s shock exit from the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp reportedly ready to succeed him if approached.
Nagelsmann’s departure comes after Germany were eliminated by Paraguay in the round of 32, ending a disappointing World Cup campaign despite topping Group E on goal difference.
The 38-year-old held talks with officials of the German Football Association (DFB) on Thursday in the aftermath of the defeat, with the discussions culminating in his decision to step down.
According to Sky Germany, Klopp is prepared to take charge of the national team should the DFB make an approach. The former Liverpool manager, who is currently Head of Global Soccer for the Red Bull Group, is understood to have a special exit clause in his contract that would allow him to take the Germany job.
Nagelsmann was appointed Germany head coach in September 2023 and guided the four-time world champions to the quarter-finals of UEFA Euro 2024, where they were narrowly beaten by eventual champions Spain.
Germany’s World Cup campaign ended in dramatic fashion after they lost to Paraguay on penalties following a 1-1 draw after extra time in Boston.
They had begun the tournament strongly, thrashing World Cup debutants Curacao 7-1 in their opening Group E match before defeating Ivory Coast 2-1. However, a 2-1 loss to Ecuador meant they finished level on points at the top of the group and advanced only on goal difference.
Speaking immediately after the defeat to Paraguay, Nagelsmann had expressed his willingness to remain in charge despite the disappointing exit.”I am not someone who runs away,” Nagelsmann said.
“This is not the first time this has happened, and there are some things about today that need to be changed.”
The outgoing coach insisted he was prepared to continue leading the team if the German Football Association retained confidence in him.”But if the DFB wants me to continue I am going to continue. I know the mechanics of football, I know how the industry works.”
“I know a lot of people will want me to leave but I would love to continue if the football association wants me to.”
Boluwatife Enome
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