Nagelsmann’s Departure and World Cup Performance
Julian Nagelsmann has resigned as the head coach of the German men’s national football team, following the team’s early exit from the World Cup. The German Football Association (DFB) confirmed his resignation on Friday, just four days after Germany was eliminated by Paraguay in the round of 32. This marks the third consecutive World Cup campaign where Germany has failed to advance beyond the round of 16, with previous early exits in 2018 and 2022.
Nagelsmann, who took charge in September 2023, initially expressed a desire to remain in his position, stating after the defeat, “I’m not someone who runs away.” However, after discussions with individuals within the federation, he requested to be relieved of his duties. In a statement, he explained that the decision was difficult but necessary for the team to have a fresh start after a bitter disappointment.
The team’s performance at the World Cup did not meet the standards set by the DFB. Germany had topped their group with victories over Curacao and Ivory Coast but showed an unconvincing performance in their loss to Ecuador in the final group stage match. The defeat to Paraguay on penalties was also Germany’s first-ever shootout loss in a FIFA World Cup, denying them a spot against France in the round of 16.
Criticism also arose regarding Nagelsmann’s tactical decisions and team selections during the tournament. These included playing Joshua Kimmich as a right-back instead of his usual midfield role and recalling 40-year-old goalkeeper Manuel Neuer, despite Oliver Baumann having played in all six World Cup qualifiers.
DFB’s Search for a New Coach
Following Nagelsmann’s resignation, the DFB has announced its intention to hold talks with Jurgen Klopp regarding the vacant coaching position. The association stated that Klopp has already indicated a general willingness to consider the role. Klopp, who previously managed Liverpool for nine years, stepped down from that role in 2024 and became Red Bull’s head of global football in January 2025.
Klopp’s presence at the World Cup as a pundit for German television garnered significant attention, with some suggesting he was a potential successor even before Germany’s elimination. He has been linked with a return to coaching, and his time away from club management appears to have prepared him for a return to the international arena.
Rudi Voller, the DFB’s sporting director, acknowledged Nagelsmann’s decision, stating it deserved respect as he took responsibility. Voller also affirmed that Nagelsmann remains an excellent coach. DFB president Bernd Neuendorf emphasized the need to discuss the reasons for the team’s underperformance and stated that the federation cannot simply move on without addressing the issues.
Looking Ahead
The potential appointment of Jurgen Klopp is seen by many as a significant move for the national team. Despite his current role with Red Bull, Klopp remains a highly popular figure in German football. His appointment would likely be a substantial financial commitment for the DFB, as his current position reportedly pays more than what Nagelsmann received as national team coach.
The immediate objectives for a new coach would include qualifying for Euro 2028 and leading a successful campaign. Over the long term, the aim would be to rejuvenate the national team and restore it to its pre-2016 level. The departure of sporting director Andreas Rettig at the end of the year, who was responsible for the national team and the DFB’s academy, also suggests further changes are anticipated within the organisation.
Nagelsmann’s contract had been extended to include this year’s World Cup and then to Euro 2028. This was his second major tournament with Germany, having led them to the quarter-finals of Euro 2024 as hosts, where they lost to eventual winners Spain.
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Source: bbc.com
