Germany have officially ended their association with head coach Julian Nagelsmann following the country’s disappointing campaign at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with the German Football Association confirming it has begun the process of appointing a successor.
The federation announced on Thursday that its supervisory board and shareholder representatives unanimously approved the immediate termination of Nagelsmann’s contract after receiving a recommendation from DFB president Bernd Neuendorf.
According to the DFB, the decision came after Nagelsmann met privately with top officials on Wednesday and informed them of his desire to step down following Germany’s early exit from the World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico.
Nagelsmann Takes Responsibility
Reacting to his departure, Nagelsmann said stepping aside was one of the toughest decisions of his managerial career but insisted it was necessary for the future of the national team.
The former Bayern Munich coach admitted Germany’s World Cup elimination had forced him to reflect on the team’s direction.
“My goal has always been the success of this team,” he said.
“Following our elimination, I spent time reflecting and speaking with people close to me as well as officials of the DFB. This was not an easy decision.
“After such a painful defeat, I believe this team deserves a fresh start without carrying the burden of what has happened.
“I want to thank my coaching staff, the players, everyone at the DFB and, most importantly, the fans whose support never wavered, even during the most difficult moments.
“I am deeply sorry that we could not give you the World Cup memories you deserved.”
DFB Pays Tribute To Departing Coach
DFB president Neuendorf praised Nagelsmann for his professionalism and commitment throughout his time in charge of the national team.
He described the 39-year-old as a principled and honourable individual whose dedication to German football never came into question.
“We sincerely thank Julian Nagelsmann for his outstanding work since taking charge in September 2023,” Neuendorf said.
“He approached his responsibilities with exceptional commitment, integrity and professionalism. He leaves with our respect and gratitude.”
Rudi Völler Backs Decision
Germany sporting director Rudi Völler also expressed support for Nagelsmann’s decision, saying the coach had chosen to place the interests of the national team above his personal ambitions.
According to Völler, everyone within the federation had hoped Germany would produce stronger performances at the World Cup, but the disappointing outcome made change inevitable.
He described Nagelsmann as one of Germany’s finest coaches and expressed confidence that he would enjoy success elsewhere in his managerial career.
Klopp Emerges As Favourite
Attention has now shifted to former Liverpool F.C. manager Jürgen Klopp, with the DFB confirming it will immediately begin formal discussions over the vacant position.
Klopp has long been linked with the Germany job and has previously indicated he would be open to managing the national team under the right circumstances.
Should negotiations prove successful, the former Borussia Dortmund and Liverpool boss could become the next man tasked with restoring Germany to the summit of world football.
More Changes At The DFB
The restructuring within the German Football Association extends beyond the head coach’s departure.
Assistant coaches Benjamin Glück and Benjamin Hübner will also leave alongside Nagelsmann, with the federation thanking both men for their contributions.
Meanwhile, DFB sports managing director Andreas Rettig has announced he will step down when his contract expires later this year.
Rettig revealed he informed Neuendorf of his decision before the World Cup began, explaining that his departure was motivated by personal reasons.
With Nagelsmann gone and discussions with Klopp expected to intensify, Germany now enters a new chapter as the four-time world champions attempt to rebuild after another painful World Cup disappointment.