As had been widely expected ever since Germany's shock exit to Paraguay at the 2026 World Cup, Julian Nagelsmann is no longer national team head coach, the DFB (German Football Association) confirmed on Friday.
The 38-year-old has resigned from the job three years after arriving and well before the end of his contract, which was to expire after the 2028 European Championship. The renewal of his deal in January 2025 forced the DFB into tricky negotiations, and led to a reported three-hour, secret meeting the day before the official announcement.
"This decision was anything but easy for me," Nagelsmann said in a statement.
"My top priority has always been the team's success. After such a bitter disappointment, the team deserves the chance for a fresh start without any baggage... A special thank you also goes to the fans. You carried us, you trusted us, and you gave us energy, even during difficult times. I am truly sorry and deeply saddened that we let you down and were unable to give you more nights of football excitement at this World Cup. You deserved so much more!"
Nagelsmann's assistants Benjamin Glück and Benjamin Hübner have also left. The DFB also stated that they are entering talks with Jürgen Klopp for the vacant head coach position, indicating he has already shown a willingness to take up the role.
