The German Football Association (DFB) has officially parted ways with head coach Julian Nagelsmann following Germany’s disappointing exit from the 2026 FIFA World Cup, confirming that formal discussions will now begin with former Liverpool manager Jürgen Klopp over the vacant position.
The DFB announced on Thursday that its shareholder representatives and supervisory board unanimously approved the immediate termination of Nagelsmann’s contract after accepting a recommendation from the federation’s president, Bernd Neuendorf.
According to the federation, the decision came after a private meeting held on Wednesday during which Nagelsmann requested to step down in the wake of Germany’s early elimination from the World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico.
In a statement, Neuendorf thanked the 38-year-old coach for his commitment and professionalism throughout his tenure.
“The DFB sincerely thanks Nagelsmann for his outstanding work since September 2023. He has consistently demonstrated tremendous commitment and dedication. He is also a highly principled, sincere, and honourable person, and we hold him in the highest respect,” Neuendorf said.
Nagelsmann admitted that leaving the role was one of the most difficult decisions of his career but said Germany needed a fresh beginning after its World Cup disappointment.
“Since the team’s exit, I have reflected deeply and held extensive discussions with those close to me and with the DFB. This decision was not easy. My goal has always been the team’s success,” he said.
“After such a significant defeat, this team deserves a fresh start without the weight of the past. I want to thank my coaching staff, the players, and everyone at the DFB who supported us.
“I am especially grateful to the fans for your unwavering support and trust, which gave us strength even in the most difficult moments. I am deeply sorry that I could not deliver more memorable World Cup moments and that I fell short of your expectations. You deserved better.”
Germany’s sporting director, Rudi Völler, described the World Cup campaign as a major disappointment but commended Nagelsmann for putting the national team’s interests ahead of his own.
“The World Cup exit disappointed us all, and we respect Nagelsmann’s decision to take responsibility. He put the interests of the German national team above his own, despite his desire to continue leading the team toward his goals,” Völler said.
“We all hoped for better results and performances at the World Cup. Nagelsmann is an excellent coach, and I am confident he will continue to achieve success. I sincerely thank him for the trust and collaboration he has consistently shown.”
The DFB also confirmed that assistant coaches Benjamin Glück and Benjamin Hübner will leave alongside Nagelsmann, bringing an end to the coaching team that took charge in September 2023.
Attention has now shifted to Klopp, with the federation confirming it will immediately commence formal negotiations with the former Liverpool manager, who has long been regarded as one of Germany’s leading coaching candidates and has previously indicated he would be open to managing the national team.
The expected appointment would mark a significant new chapter for Germany as it seeks to rebuild following another disappointing major tournament campaign.
Meanwhile, the federation also announced another senior departure, with Sports Managing Director Andreas Rettig confirming that he will step down when his contract expires at the end of the year.
Rettig said he had informed DFB president Bernd Neuendorf of his decision before the World Cup, citing personal reasons for his planned exit.