Julian Nagelsmann’s time as head coach of the German national football team is nearing its end after the unexpected exit from the 2026 World Cup. Following Germany’s elimination via penalty shootout to Paraguay in the Round of 16, Nagelsmann was summoned to a meeting at the German Football Association (DFB) where he was reportedly advised to resign.
If Nagelsmann chooses not to step down, he is likely to be dismissed by the federation. While Jürgen Klopp is considered a potential successor, reports indicate that Nagelsmann’s removal process is separate from any decision regarding the former Liverpool manager.
Pressure Mounts on Nagelsmann Following World Cup Humiliation
The information regarding Nagelsmann’s potential resignation was shared by Florian Plettenburg, a journalist with Sky Sports Germany. During the meeting at the DFB, Nagelsmann discussed the shortcomings of the team during their brief World Cup campaign. Although a final decision has yet to be made, a verdict is anticipated soon.
After the shocking defeat, Nagelsmann expressed his commitment, stating, “I am not the type to shy away from responsibilities in such moments. I am prepared to move forward. If they no longer want me, they should let me know. Otherwise, I will start preparing for the Nations League and the European Championship.”
Initially, the federation showed support for Nagelsmann, but sentiments appear to have shifted.
Rudi Völler, the DFB’s sporting director, commented post-elimination, “I still believe he is probably the right person to continue. But I am not DFB; I do not decide this alone. It is indeed too little for a football nation like Germany to bear. We expected more and could have achieved more; this must be stated clearly. Now we have lost twice in a row, which is a fact.”
Völler continued to affirm Nagelsmann’s capabilities, saying, “He remains a top coach. It’s easy to say such things when you are consistently winning. But he is a fighter. He will recover from such a bitter defeat and will want to attack again. I know many will not understand this, given how we were eliminated.”
