Germany coach resigns after World Cup exit: DFB in talks with Klopp

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Germany coach resigns after World Cup exit: DFB in talks with Klopp
Germany eliminated in World Cup shootout as Paraguay advances
Julian Nagelsmann resigns as Germany coach after World Cup group-stage exit
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Julian Nagelsmann resigned as Germany’s national team coach on Friday, 3 July 2026, four days after the Mannschaft’s humiliating World Cup exit to Paraguay, paving the way for Jürgen Klopp to take over if the Liverpool manager accepts the role.
The German Football Association (DFB) confirmed Nagelsmann’s departure, stating that the 38-year-old had stepped down under pressure following the team’s third consecutive first-round elimination at the World Cup, after defeats in 2018 and 2022. The DFB’s board is now in immediate talks with Klopp, who has already indicated his “fundamental willingness” to succeed Nagelsmann . German media reported that the federation is prepared to meet Klopp’s contractual demands, though his current Red Bull Salzburg deal remains a potential obstacle .
Nagelsmann’s resignation was confirmed across German outlets, with the DFB citing the “disappointing course” of the tournament in the United States, Canada, and Mexico as the reason for his departure . The decision came just hours after Germany’s 2-1 penalty shootout defeat to Paraguay, a result that triggered widespread criticism of the team’s tactical approach and squad selection. Nagelsmann, who had a contract running until UEFA Euro 2028, chose to step aside rather than face further public pressure .
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz praised Nagelsmann’s contributions, thanking him for his service in a statement released on Friday . Yet the broader reaction in the German press was one of introspection, with commentators questioning the DFB’s leadership and the national team’s direction. “Germany stands before a revolution,” declared the *Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung*, while *Der Tagesspiegel* described Nagelsmann as “a transitional figure” who ultimately failed to deliver consistency .
The DFB’s move to pursue Klopp reflects a desire for immediate credibility, given his track record of rebuilding clubs into title-winning sides. Should he accept, Klopp would inherit a squad still searching for identity after another underwhelming major tournament. The federation’s next steps will hinge on securing his release from Red Bull and finalising terms, with the European Championship qualifiers looming in the autumn.
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