Germany’s coaching crossroads: Nagelsmann exits, Klopp in frame

German media, including Sky Sport and Zeitung, reported on Friday that Julian Nagelsmann, 38, is stepping down as head coach of the Germany national team. The decision comes despite a contract that still runs for two more years and after Germany’s round‑of‑16 exit to Paraguay on penalties. Nagelsmann had initially said he would remain in charge through Euro 2028, and the coaching change follows two disappointing World Cup campaigns in 2018 and 2022 that left German fans eager for a revival. His contract still has two years left but he was advised to step down. Germany opened the qualifying campaign with a 7‑1 win over Curaçao. They then secured a 2‑1 victory against Ivory Coast. A 1‑2 defeat to Ecuador followed.

Nagelsmann quits after Paraguay loss, Klopp in line for Germany job

Germany’s next fixture is set for 24 September against the Netherlands in the Nations League. The Dutch side also exited the World Cup at the round of 16 and saw Ronald Koeman resign. The KNVB is now searching for a new national coach. Nagelsmann retired from playing at age 20 due to injuries before moving into coaching at Hoffenheim. He became Hoffenheim’s head coach at 28, later managed RB Leipzig from 2019 to 2021 and Bayern München from 2021 to 2023. He took over Germany in September 2023 and saw the team lose in the Euro 2024 quarter‑finals after to eventual champions Spain.

Nagelsmann quits after World Cup exit, Klopp eyed as Germany boss

Jürgen Klopp, 59, left Liverpool two years ago and is widely cited in Germany as the leading candidate to replace Nagelsmann. Klopp has been Red Bull’s Head of Global Soccer since January 2015.