The German Football Association (DFB) is pursuing discussions with Jurgen Klopp regarding the men’s national team coaching position, following the resignation of Julian Nagelsmann. Nagelsmann’s departure comes after Germany‘s early exit from the World Cup, where they were defeated by Paraguay in the last 32.
Nagelsmann, who was appointed in September 2023, formally requested to be relieved of his duties on Thursday. The DFB confirmed on Friday that it had granted his request, terminating the contract with the 38-year-old former Bayern Munich boss. The DFB stated its intention to seek talks with Klopp, noting that he has already indicated a general willingness to consider the role.
Germany’s campaign in the World Cup 2026 concluded on Monday after a penalty shootout loss to Paraguay. This marked a third consecutive early exit from the tournament for the four-time winners, who had previously failed to advance beyond the group stage in 2018 and 2022 under previous coaches.
Nagelsmann’s tenure and departure
Initially, Nagelsmann expressed a desire to remain in charge after the World Cup defeat, stating, “I’m not someone who runs away.” However, in a statement released on Friday, he explained his decision: “I’ve done a lot of thinking in the days since our elimination and have consulted with trusted individuals both personally and within the federation.” He added that the decision was difficult, but his priority was the team’s success, and after such a disappointment, they deserved a fresh start.
This was Nagelsmann’s second major tournament at the helm. Under his leadership, Germany reached the quarter-finals of Euro 2024 as hosts, where they were defeated by eventual winners Spain in extra time. His contract, initially set to run until after Euro 2024, had been extended to cover this year’s World Cup and then further to Euro 2028.
Rudi Voller, the DFB’s sporting director, acknowledged Nagelsmann’s decision, stating, “After the disappointing World Cup exit for everyone, Julian’s decision deserves our respect, because he’s taking responsibility where he’d like to continue shaping things, and putting the national team as a whole above himself.” Voller also affirmed Nagelsmann’s coaching abilities, expressing confidence in his future success.
Concerns about the team’s performance were also voiced by DFB president Bernd Neuendorf. Following discussions with Nagelsmann, Voller, and DFB managing director Andreas Rettig, Neuendorf stated that Germany’s World Cup performance did not meet their standards. He emphasized the need to discuss the reasons behind the team’s inability to demonstrate their quality and meet expectations, stressing that they could not simply move on without addressing the setback.
During his time as coach, Nagelsmann made some notable selection decisions. He opted to play captain Joshua Kimmich as a right-back, rather than in his usual midfield role. He also brought Galatasaray winger Leroy Sane back into the starting line-up and recalled 40-year-old goalkeeper Manuel Neuer, despite Oliver Baumann having played in all six World Cup qualifiers.
Klopp emerges as leading candidate
Nagelsmann’s departure has opened the door for Jurgen Klopp, who is reportedly the federation’s preferred candidate to take over the national team. Klopp, who concluded a highly successful tenure with Liverpool in 2024, during which he secured both the Champions League and Premier League titles, is currently the global head of football for Red Bull.
Reports suggest that Klopp’s current contract includes a special exit clause that would permit him to accept the Germany job. The 59-year-old remains a popular figure in Germany and has been involved as a pundit for German television during the World Cup coverage. His potential appointment would mark his first coaching role since leaving Liverpool.
The DFB’s statement confirms their intention to initiate talks with Klopp, who has already signaled his general willingness to take on the position. This move comes as Germany seeks a new direction after a series of disappointing performances in major international tournaments, including group stage exits in the 2018 and 2022 World Cups. Germany has not won a World Cup knockout match since being crowned champions in 2014.
Nagelsmann is only the second national coach in German history to be asked to step down, following Hansi Flick in 2023. The DFB’s president, Bernd Neuendorf, expressed gratitude for Nagelsmann’s work since September 2023, highlighting his commitment and ambition. The search for a new coach is now a priority for the DFB as they look to rebuild the national team.
Source: bbc.co.uk
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